Registration is now open for the fifth annual “Mental Health Matters” (MHM) 5K run/walk in Hiawatha.
The race, held in memory of Jeff Vipond, will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7, beginning at 7:30 a.m. at 1450 Boyson Road in Hiawatha.
Participants can choose from 5K run or 5K walk tickets, as well as a virtual option. The entry fee of $35 ($50 the day of the race) includes a race T-shirt and sign.
The annual event honors those who have died by suicide, their friends and family, and those impacted by mental health concerns.
Founded in 2020 by Tim Vipond, the MHM 5K honors the life of his son Jeff, who died by suicide in 2019. Since that time, the MHM 5K has raised over $67,000 to support Foundation 2 Crisis Services, the local mental health and suicide prevention organization.
Between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023, Foundation 2 Crisis Services provided care more than 97,700 times to individuals and families experiencing crisis across Iowa.
New this year, participants can choose to have an “in memory of” or “in honor of” sign dedicated to a loved one. These signs will be placed along the route as a reminder of those being honored and to let others know they are not alone in their fight.
Sponsorship options are also available. For more information on sponsorships, visit the Mental Health Matters 5K in memory of Jeff Vipond Facebook event page.
