As the morning sun rose on the Appomattox River Regional Park, Alex Gerofsky, a lead process engineer at AdvanSix Hopewell, laced up his running shoes, ready to hit the trail.
Alex, along with colleagues and family from the Hopewell and Chesterfield plants, was on the starting line for the 9th Annual Friends of the Lower Appomattox River 5K Trail Run-Walk. The race invites participants of all fitness levels to enjoy a scenic, trail-based 5K while supporting efforts to preserve and enhance the Appomattox River and its surrounding green spaces.
“These events are a great way to get out, get active and give back. Plus, you never know-you might think you don’t like running but then find out you actually do,” said Alex.
The 5K is just one example of how AdvanSix and its teammates are contributing to lasting change in the community. Whether through conservation efforts, infrastructure projects, or simply encouraging employees to get out and be active, we are proud of our employees’ dedication and the investments to support community well-being.
“5Ks are a great way to support a cause. Not only do you get to run or walk for fun, but you’re also helping raise money for something that matters,” said Alex.
The course winds through the natural beauty of the Lower Appomattox River, which is currently being transformed by the Appomattox River Trail project. The grand vision is to create a 25-mile interconnected Blueway-greenway spanning six communities-Chesterfield County, Dinwiddie County, Petersburg, Colonial Heights, Prince George County and Hopewell. The trail would feature 16 riverside parks, 11 historical sites, 8 boat access points, and 3 marinas, serving as a hub for outdoor recreation, alternative transportation, and community connection.
For Alex, it was thrilling to be able to support this work through his job. “I love running on the Capitol Trail in Richmond,” he said. “To think that we’ll have another one that stretches from Chesterfield all the way to downtown Hopewell is amazing. It’ll give the community a way to get outside, get active and find a community of walkers, runners, or bikers,” he explained.
“I also think it’ll draw people to the area who might not have come otherwise-maybe they’ll check out the trail, then stick around and spend money in the city.”
As the last runners crossed the finish line and medals were handed out, the sense of accomplishment extended beyond individual performances. This gathering was another step toward a healthier, more connected and environmentally sustainable future for the Tri-Cities region.
“It makes me feel good working for a company that gives back to the community,” Alex said. “It’s a chance to be active, have fun and support something meaningful.”