KJ's 5k for Mental Health & Animal Rescue

The 7th Annual KJ’s 5k will be in-person, with the option to participate VIRTUALLY!

Schedule:

You may participate in-person on October 7, 2023 at Portage Lakes State Park (Check in starts at 8 am) or complete a virtual 5k on a route of your choosing between September 2, 2023 and October 7, 2023.

After September 16th, t-shirts are first come first serve, and size is not guaranteed.  If you register on the 15th or before, your t-shirt will be available in the size requested.

Support local Suicide Prevention and Awareness efforts by participating in our 2023 KJ’s 5k!

A virtual 5k means you can run, walk, crawl, bike or otherwise complete the 5k without worrying about the starting line crowds at a traditional in-person 5k. The world is your trail!

You can complete your distance any time and any where from September 2 through Oct 7, even on a treadmill if your dog doesn’t mind!

While no place medals will be provided for virtual participants, you can track your distance and time on any running or exercise app, and post a screenshot of your time, distance and route, and any photos you may wish to share on our facebook page with the hashtag #KJS5K to let your friends and fellow participants know how you did! You will also be able to enter your time on the race page and print a certificate with your name and time on it.

Your race packet will be mailed to you in mid-September, or within a week of registration after that. It will include a custom KJ’s 5k t-shirt with a new design and color for 2023, a unique custom designed finishers medal (medal will come separately near the end of September), and a numbered KJ’s 5k Race Bib. If you are participating with a pet, check the box during registration to tell us that, and we will include a special treat for your four-legged friend as well!

Suicide is a silent epidemic. People rarely talk about it. And because of that, people do not seek or receive the help they need. While suicide does not get the media attention of mass shootings, bombings or drug overdoses, suicide is the cause of 45,000 deaths each year in the United States. And for every one death, 25 people make an attempt. EVERY ONE of these deaths and suicide attempts was preventable with proper treatment.

By participating in KJ’s 5k, you can make a difference!  Join us on race day to support suicide prevention and education in Summit County, and help take care of homeless animals. Proceeds benefit Portage Path Behavioral Health and select animal charities. Donations are accepted at this link: fundraiser page. Donations can also be made through the registration process.

Registration is $25 for age 16 and up, and $10.00 for anyone younger.