Los Angeles Rams Quarterback and 2025 AP NFL Most Valuable Player Matthew Stafford and Kelly Stafford return as Honorary Chairs

Registration for the 5k Run and Walk is Now Open at  www.walkunitedla.org. 

Funds Raised will Benefit United Way’s Initiatives that Create Pathways from Poverty to Prosperity for Angelenos in Need

LOS ANGELES — March 4, 2026 — United Way of Greater Los Angeles (UWGLA), in partnership with the Los Angeles Rams, is proud to announce WalkUnitedLA 2026, returning on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the iconic SoFi Stadium at Hollywood Park in Inglewood.  The annual 5k run/walk brings together thousands of Angelenos for a powerful day of unity, community, and purpose.

The 2025 AP NFL MVP Matthew Stafford and his wife, Kelly, will serve once again as Honorary Chairs, inspiring thousands of Angelenos for a day of unity and action.

“Kelly and I are thrilled to return to WalkUnitedLA for the event’s return to SoFi Stadium,” said Stafford. “Coming off the excitement of last season and seeing Los Angeles rally around our team was truly something special. It’s important to me to show our fans and the city that we are showing up for them the same way they show up for our team week in and week out. Los Angeles is a special community and my family and I are grateful to be a part of such a unifying event.”

For nearly two decades, WalkUnitedLA has mobilized individuals, families, businesses, labor partners, schools, and community organizations to raise critical funds in support of United Way’s initiatives in housing stability, education equity, and pathways to opportunity. The proceeds lift up unhoused neighbors and low-income families and help champion college and career opportunities for all underserved students across Los Angeles County.

“We are thankful to the Los Angeles Rams and to Matthew and Kelly Stafford for showing up as true MVPs for the community, on and off the field. They champion what WalkUnitedLA is about, coming together with a shared vision of ensuring every Angeleno has access to housing stability, education, and the opportunity to succeed in life,” said Elise Buik, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Los Angeles. “The funds we raise expand college and career pathways that empower our youth, uplift families, and strengthen our communities. That’s how we build a more equitable Los Angeles.”

United Way’s college and career initiatives provide high school and community college students with access to college programs, mentors, emergency financial support, career workshops, and essential resources that help them stay enrolled, graduate, and build meaningful futures.

According to United Way’s Real Cost Measure analysis, households led by individuals without a high school diploma are more likely to experience poverty, with approximately 28.7% living below the poverty line—compared to only 7.6% of those with a college degree. This persistent gap underscores the need for robust programs that uplift students and families, as educational attainment remains a clear indicator of financial stability.

“Over the years, our partnership with United Way of Greater Los Angeles has allowed us to expand and deepen our community impact,” said Los Angeles Rams President Kevin Demoff.  “WalkUnitedLA is more than a single event. It’s about standing with our community, investing in young people, and walking together toward a brighter future for every Angeleno.” 

WalkUnitedLA is a family-friendly 5K walk/run, featuring food, entertainment, community activities, and appearances by Rams players, Rams Cheerleaders, and team mascot Rampage. Participants will also enjoy an experience unique to this event—a lap through the iconic SoFi Stadium.  The event is made possible through the generous support of the co-host and the presenting sponsor Los Angeles Rams, platinum sponsor East West Bank, along with gold sponsor Edward Jones, and silver sponsors U.S. Bank, KPMG, Banc of California, and BMO.

Since its launch in 2007, WalkUnitedLA has united more than 130,000 Angelenos, raising millions to strengthen local communities, respond to crises, and create long-lasting impact across Los Angeles County.

Registration is now open at www.walkunitedla.org. Participants are encouraged to form teams, fundraise, and help spread the word to ensure even more Angelenos can take part in creating a stronger, more equitable future.  Those who fundraise have opportunities to earn incentives, including Rams game tickets, experiences, and signed memorabilia, among other items.   

About United Way of Greater Los Angeles 

United Way of Greater Los Angeles is one of LA’s most trusted nonprofits, bringing together people, partners, and resources to address the region’s most pressing challenges through innovative solutions and community-driven investments. For over 100 years, United Way has worked to create pathways from poverty to prosperity for all individuals across Los Angeles County to have access to housing, education, and opportunities to thrive. Learn more at www.unitedwayla.org.   

About Los Angeles Rams 

The Los Angeles Rams – Los Angeles’ original professional sports team and Super Bowl LVI Champions – stand as one of the oldest franchises in the National Football League and since its founding in 1937, have garnered four World Championships and sent 30 of its members to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. As a professional sports team, the organization is committed to be a valuable civic partner and serving the greater Los Angeles area 365 days a year. The Rams play their home games at SoFi Stadium, which is located at Hollywood Park, a 298-acre sports and entertainment destination owned, being developed and operated by Los Angeles Rams Owner/Chairman E. Stanley Kroenke in Inglewood, Calif.  

MEDIA CONTACTS: 

United Way: Esmeralda Fabian, efabianromero@unitedwayla.org  

Los Angeles Rams: Mara Powner, mpowner@rams.nfl.com