Salisbury, MD – A popular, local 5K run and walk with a mission to promote mental health awareness, support, and education is returning after a four-year hiatus. The eRace the Stigma 5K run and walk will take place Friday, May 10, 2024, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the Salisbury City Park.
The first eRace the Stigma run and walk occurred in 2015, when some friends organized the event to raise funds for another friend shouldering an expensive, inpatient treatment program her daughter needed. About 25 people participated in that event.
Each year in May, which is mental health awareness month, the event drew more participants, sponsors, and enthusiasm. The 2019 event involved nearly 250 people and included a mental health expo featuring local mental health care providers resources. Proceeds from each race supported individuals and families burdened by mental health treatment costs.
The COVID-19 pandemic halted the eRace but also amplified how isolation, stress, and uncertainty can impact mental health. Now, some of the founding eRace committee members have partnered with the Wicomico County Public Schools, the Wicomico Partnership for Families and Children, and the Local Management Board for Wicomico County to bring the eRace back, bigger and better than ever.
Explains Co-Race Director, Harlan Eagle “We are very excited to organize the 2024 eRace the Stigma 5K in conjunction with the Second Annual Children’s Mental Health Awareness Family Night. Mental health matters! By bringing it out into the open in a fun and active way, we hope people will find the support and resources they need to improve their mental health and overall wellness.”
The Children’s Mental Health Awareness Family Night is a free, fun event with a carnival-like atmosphere. In addition to community agencies providing wellness information, the family night will feature food, games, a petting zoo, an art contest, a bounce house, and live music by AMP Studios. The family night is funded through the Wicomico Partnership for Families and Children, Wicomico County Public Schools, and the Maryland Governor’s Office for Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services.
To register for the 5K run or walk, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/Events/MD/Salisbury/eRACETHESTIGMA5KRUNWALK
