Light Up the Night 5K for Mental Health Set for Sept. 12 in Kearney
Registration is now open for Light Up the Night 5K Walk/Run on Saturday, Sept. 12 at Yanney Park in Kearney. Coordinated by CHI Health Richard Young Behavioral Health, the 13th annual Glow Race and Family Fun Night for Mental Health event raises community awareness, encourages resiliency and supports advocacy for emotional, psychological and social well-being.
Centered around this year’s theme, “Everyone Has a Story, Mental Health Matters,” the event highlights personal experiences to help reduce stigma and normalize open conversations. Community members are invited to submit 1-to-3-minute videos sharing their personal journeys.
Participant check-in, day-of-race registration and fun night activities, including a live DJ, food trucks and kids games, will begin at 5 p.m. in the park’s south parking lot. The 5K walk/run will start at 8 p.m.
Online registration is open through Sept. 3 and includes a commemorative T-shirt and personal glow items. Entry is $25. To register online visit give.commonspirit.org/chigoodsamaritan/lightupthenight
Registration is also available at the event. Day-of-race registration does not include a T-shirt.
“As our world faces growing challenges each year, we come together to remind individuals that help is available, they are not alone, and every life is valuable. We strive to actively engage our community in driving change and taking action—reminding everyone that if you see something, say something. Often, small acts of kindness for a stranger can make a monumental difference in their life,” says Lacey Witt, RN, PMHNP-BC, director of CHI Health Richard Young Behavioral Health and CHI Health St. Francis Alcohol and Drug Treatment Center.
All proceeds from Light Up the Night benefit the Richard Young fund at the CHI Health Good Samaritan Foundation. This fund provides transportation, clothing and medications to mental health patients in crisis.
Runners and walkers of all ages are welcome. Participants age 13 and younger must be accompanied by an adult and participants age 17 and younger must have signed parent/guardian consent.
Prizes for the top three race finishers will be awarded. Prizes will also be awarded for best glow attire, best energy and best group effort to support mental health.
For questions or further information, please call 308-865-2234.