KANSAS CITY, Missouri — More than six thousand runners hit the pavement Saturday to participate in the 17th annual Burns & McDonnell Rock the Parkway half-marathon and 5K. In partnership with KC Running Company, the race started and finished along Kansas City’s scenic Ward Parkway and benefits Children’s Mercy Kansas City, which provides healthcare, programs and resources to improve the lives of children and their families.

“It’s inspiring to see the Kansas City community come together each year in support of Children’s Mercy,” said Julee Koncak, vice president, community relations at Burns & McDonnell. “Every runner, volunteer and supporter helps strengthen the care Children’s Mercy provides to keep families strong and healthy.”

In 2025, participants raised nearly $38,000 to help bring hope and healing to children like Olivia Robinson, who has received care at Children’s Mercy since being diagnosed with a brain tumor at age three. After surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, she is now nearing two years in remission and recently overcame a rare inflammatory condition — all with remarkable resilience and joy.

“From playtime to personalized support, Children’s Mercy made a difficult place feel safe, even joyful,” said Brianna Robinson, Olivia’s mother. “Because of that care, and the generosity of donors who make it possible, Olivia continues to defy the odds.”

One in three children in the Kansas City region visit Children’s Mercy each year and the nonprofit healthcare system relies on philanthropic giving and community support to fund its services. This is the ninth year Burns & McDonnell and KC Running Company have designated Children’s Mercy as the race beneficiary.

“The support we feel at Rock the Parkway empowers our teams to deliver exceptional, family‑centered care and to pursue new breakthroughs that improve the lives of children across our region,” said Molly Biscari, philanthropic community engagement manager.

Post-race festivities included live entertainment, as well as food and drinks from some of Kansas City’s favorite restaurant vendors, including Fiorella’s Jack Stack, Nick the Greek and Chicken Salad Chick. Runners looking to register for next year’s event will be able to sign up at rocktheparkway.com in the fall.

About Burns & McDonnell

Working from more than 75 offices around the world, Burns & McDonnell designs and builds critical infrastructure. Our family of companies — driven by engineers, construction professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists — delivers projects grounded in safety and a desire to make a difference as we make our clients successful. Founded in 1898, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned. Learn more.

About Children’s Mercy Kansas City

Founded in 1897, Children’s Mercy is a leading independent children’s health organization dedicated to holistic care, translational research, educating caregivers and breakthrough innovation to create a world of well-being for all children. With not-for-profit hospitals in Missouri and Kansas, and numerous specialty clinics in both states, Children’s Mercy provides the highest level of care for children from birth through the age of 21. U.S. News & World Report has repeatedly ranked Children’s Mercy as one of “America’s Best Children’s Hospitals.” Thanks to generous philanthropic and volunteer support, Children’s Mercy provides hope, comfort and the prospect of brighter tomorrows to every child who passes through its doors. Visit Children’s Mercy to learn more, and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube for the latest news and videos.