Mental Health Matters 5k & Fun Run

Join the Stafford Education Foundation (SEF) for a morning of movement, community, and advocacy for the 2nd Annual Mental Health Matters 5k and Fun Run! As part of Mental Health Awareness Month on Saturday, May 1, 2027, we are lacing up our sneakers to prioritize the well-being of our students, educators, and families at John Lee Pratt Park (120 River Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22405).

Whether you’re a seasoned runner aiming for a personal best or a family looking for a meaningful Saturday morning stroll, this event is for you. The Fun Run (ages under 12 years old) will kick-off at 8:30 a.m. with the 5k beginning shortly thereafter.

All students participate for FREE.

Beyond the race course, we invite you to explore resource tables and tents hosted by local mental health organizations. These partners will be on-site to provide valuable wellness materials, mindfulness tools, and information on support services available right here in our community. Every step taken and every dollar raised goes directly toward funding mental health resources, classroom grants, and wellness initiatives within Stafford County Public Schools.

Runner Registration Portal

Sponsorship Opportunities

Partner with the Stafford Education Foundation as a sponsor for our Community Mental Health 5k & Fun Run!

By sponsoring this event, your organization takes a front-seat role in championing the emotional and academic well-being of Stafford County Public Schools.

Your contribution does more than just put your logo on a shirt or event operations; it directly funds vital mental health resources, innovative classroom grants, and wellness initiatives that impact students and educators every day.

Join us at John Lee Pratt Park to demonstrate your commitment to a healthier, more resilient community while gaining valuable visibility among local families, educators, and advocates.

Email staffordeducationfoundation@staffordschools.net for more information or to become a sponsor today!

  • Your sponsorship includes:

    • Exclusive opportunity to speak or present at the start/end of the race

    • Exclusive naming recognition (i.e. Community Mental Health 5K presented by…)

    • Dedicated brand recognition in all event marketing materials

    • 15 runner Registrations

    • Banner at check-in

    • Organization branding on event t-shirts with premium placement.

    • Organization branding on run webpage and race materials.

    • Opportunity to host a table/tent at the event in a premium location.

  • Your sponsorship includes:

    • 12 runner Registrations

    • Banner at check in

    • Organization branding on event day materials with premium placement.

    • Organization branding on run webpage and race materials.

    • Opportunity to host a table/tent at the event in a premium location.

  • Your sponsorship includes:

    • 8 runner Registrations

    • Organization branding on event day materials.

    • Organization branding on run webpage and race materials.

    • Opportunity to host a table/tent at the event.

  • Your sponsorships includes:

    • 4 Runner Registrations.

    • Organization branding on event directional signs.

    • Organization branding on run webpage and race materials.

    • Opportunity to host a table/tent at the event.

  • Your sponsorship includes:

    • Organization branding on/at award presentations to runners.

    • Organization branding on run webpage and race materials.

    • Opportunity to host a table/tent at the event.

  • Your sponsorship Includes:

    • Organization branding on run webpage and race materials.

    • Opportunity to host a table/tent at the event.

Sponsorship Portal

Previous Runs

Inaugural Mental Health Matters 5k & Fun Run

More than 200 community members attended the inaugural Mental Health Matters 5k and Fun Run in 2026! Participants of all ages came together for a morning of movement, connection, and wellness while helping fund mental health resources, classroom grants, and wellness initiatives that positively impact Stafford County Public Schools. We look forward to making an even greater impact at our 2nd Annual event in 2027!

Thank you to our Sponsors

  • Hope Champion - DPR Construction

  • Gold - Critical Management Solutions (CMS)

  • Bronze - Apple Federal Credit Union, Machine Technologies, & Marschall Accounting Services LLC

  • Top Runners - The Green Mission, Inc.

  • Mental Health Advocates - Ebenezer United Methodist Church

2025 Hippity Hop 5k, 1M & Tot Dash

The Stafford Education Foundation’s Hippity Hop was a resounding success, bringing the community together at Pratt Park for a morning of fitness, family fun, and philanthropy. A major highlight of the event was the incredible contribution from the Mountain View High School Leadership, Education, and Public Service (LEAPS) Center students, whose leadership and energy were instrumental in managing the race logistics and the festive egg hunt. From cheering on 5K runners to coordinating the high-energy Tot Dash, these students demonstrated a remarkable commitment to service, ensuring every young participant had a memorable experience. Their involvement not only kept the event running smoothly but also showcased the vibrant spirit of student leadership within Stafford County Public Schools. Thank you to the students, participants, and sponsors for making this year’s event a significant win for our schools and our future.

Thank you to our Sponsors

  • Silver T-shirts - Anthem Blue Cross Shield

  • Bronze Bunny Awards - Mary Washington Healthcare and MAS, LLC.

  • Carrot Hopper Snacks - Apple Federal Credit Union

2018 Harvest Run

 
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