Canopy Children’s Solutions, in conjunction with Presenting Sponsors Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance and Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company, is making its annual 5K4Kids Canopy Cares Run virtual to raise awareness and fight the stigma on children’s mental health. The virtual event will begin Saturday, May 2, 2020, to kick off Children’s Mental Health Awareness Month, and runs throughout May.
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Now more than ever, it is important to prioritize mental health and explore the positive benefits of physical activity and exercise. From reducing anxiety, depression, and negative moods, it is important to stay active amidst new routines and COVID-19.
“We shouldn’t distinguish between the ‘physical health’ and ‘mental health’ of children. Rather, we should be talking about ‘healthy’ children,” said John D. Damon, Ph.D., Canopy CEO. “This year’s theme is ‘racing to remove the stigma of children’s mental health,’ because we want families to view anxiety and depression the same way they view a broken bone or asthma. With many of us spending our time at home and isolated from friends and our favorite activities, it is likely that more of us than usual are experiencing the effects of increased depression and anxiety. The 5K4Kids is the perfect way to promote healthy minds and bodies while helping to break down the stigma that has long surrounded mental health.”
“Going virtual allows us to be flexible so each participant can race their way. You can choose the date that works best for you, plus choose the exercise activity you are most comfortable with. You also get to pick your course and participate at your own pace,” said Anna Crawford, Canopy’s Events and Marketing Coordinator.
Registration is $30 for each runner, walker, swimmer and biker. Each participant will receive a 5K4Kids t-shirt, which will be mailed after the event is complete. Participants are encouraged to upload photos on social media using the hashtags #5K4Kids and #UnderTheCanopy and tagging Canopy on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
To register, please visit mycanopy.org. Participants will choose their own course and upload results online.