In an era where mental well-being is increasingly recognized as paramount, events like the SpeakUp 5K offer a vital platform for community, fitness, and crucial conversation. More than just a race, the SpeakUp 5K, proudly supported by CBS 6, is a vibrant celebration dedicated to fostering mental health awareness, especially among teenagers. It’s an opportunity to engage in a day of fun and fitness while contributing to a cause that touches countless lives.
What is the SpeakUp 5K?
The Dominion Payroll SpeakUp5k is the flagship community event of the Cameron K. Gallagher (CKG) Foundation, serving as the largest celebration of mental health in the Richmond area and beyond. Conceived by Cameron K. Gallagher herself, a Richmond teen who bravely navigated anxiety and depression, the 5K was her vision for a supportive and joyful community gathering. Tragically, Cameron passed away from an undiagnosed heart condition in 2014, but her parents, Grace and David Gallagher, brought her detailed plans to life through the CKG Foundation. The event embodies Cameron’s desire to create a space where individuals could “SpeakUp” without judgment and feel connected.
A Day of Fun, Fitness, and Inspiration
Scheduled for Saturday, September 6, 2025, in Richmond, Virginia’s Byrd Park, the SpeakUp 5K is renowned for its unique and uplifting atmosphere. Participants, whether running or walking, are treated to a course brimming with “fun zones,” energetic music, and bubbles. A signature element of the race is “Quote Alley,” where Cameron’s own sketches and inspiring quotes provide motivation and a poignant connection to her vision. These interactive elements ensure the event is an enjoyable experience for all ages and abilities, transforming a typical 5K into a memorable community celebration. For those unable to attend in person, a virtual race option allows individuals and groups to participate from anywhere, extending the reach of this important message across the nation and even globally.
The Mission: Erasing the Stigma of Mental Health
At its core, the SpeakUp 5K is a powerful vehicle for raising awareness about teen depression and anxiety, and working to erase the stigma surrounding mental illness. The CKG Foundation is dedicated to ensuring that no teen feels alone in their mental health journey, providing resources and fostering understanding. The event celebrates individual achievements and collectively impacts the community by promoting open conversations about mental health. Through the funds raised, the CKG Foundation supports initiatives like free digital mental health toolkits and mental health journals distributed to local schools, helping teens learn about and manage anxiety and stress.
How CBS 6 Supports Mental Health Awareness
CBS 6 (WTVR) has been a steadfast media partner and supporter of the SpeakUp 5K and the Cameron K. Gallagher Foundation’s mission. The local news station actively promotes the event, featuring interviews with organizers and participants, and highlighting the importance of mental health awareness. Their coverage helps amplify the message of hope and support, encouraging broader community engagement and dialogue around mental well-being. By joining forces with CBS 6, the SpeakUp 5K reaches a wider audience, drawing more individuals into the movement to support teen mental health.
Participate and Make a Difference
The SpeakUp 5K invites everyone—families, friends, corporate teams, and individuals—to join in this impactful event. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or someone looking to support a critical cause, your participation makes a tangible difference. The event has successfully raised over $2.4 million and engaged more than 26,000 individuals across all 50 states, demonstrating its far-reaching impact. By participating, you contribute to vital programs that provide support and resources for young people struggling with mental health challenges.
The SpeakUp 5K is more than a race; it’s a testament to Cameron K. Gallagher’s enduring spirit and a beacon of hope for countless individuals. It’s a day to remember that through collective action, fun, and fitness, we can indeed create a community where everyone feels empowered to speak up for mental health.
