THON kicked off its Dream Forward campaign on Sunday with the annual THON 5K. Students and members of the Penn State community came together to run and walk the 3.1-mile track across campus.

The event kicked off well before the race began, with a variety of fun events and games to cheer on the runners and provide experiences for the THON families in attendance.

As always, our photographers captured it all.

The event kicked off with a performance by Dancer Relations.

Various therapy dogs accompanied the event, providing encouraging company for the runners and families who participated.

The next event THON hosted featured a special appearance by Delaney Higgins, followed by the Penn State cheerleading team.

Before the 5K kicked off, the Nittany Lion himself made a special appearance. He led the pack from the front as he led the runners out of the starting line.

Off the runners went!

The THON 5K officially kicked off at 11:30 a.m., with a packed crowd filling the street to support the fundraiser.

The THON 5K was a success once again, giving kids and families a fun time and kicking off its largest fundraiser ahead of the penultimate 46-hour dancing event in February.