The Turlock High School Future Leaders of America Club will host their second annual Sole to Soul 5K later this month to promote mental health and wellness not only among their peers, but throughout the entire community.
“The goal of the fun run is to promote mental health awareness and really build that self-awareness of well-being at the school site,” said club advisor Cathi Schali-Lopez. “We also want to educate the community on mental health and reduce the stigma of mental illness.”
During the mental health and wellness walk and run, participants will trek a path in the surrounding area around Turlock High, beginning at Joe Debely Stadium. There will also be music, information from Stanislaus County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services for participants, and other participating clubs.
“We have our nursing students that are taking the CTE courses there to provide first-aid and a couple of track coaches to help with the actual timing,” said Schali-Lopez. “Our NJROTC students help with safety out on the roads as well.”
All of the proceeds raised during this year’s event will go towards the Turlock High Blue and Gold Student Wellness Fund, which provides resources for students based on their individual needs. Last year, the run was able to raise around $400 for the fund, and they are hoping to double that amount this year.
Helping out their peers is not a new concept to the Turlock High FLA Club as Schali-Lopez said that members also worked together to create a clothes pantry to meet the needs of students on campus.
“We started promoting it in February and our principal Marie Russell actually gave us a broom closet to store items and clothing,” said Schali-Lopez. “Student bring in clothes, parents hear about it and make donations. Anyone can take advantage of it.”
The Sole to Soul 5K will begin at 9 a.m. on April 22 at Joe Debely Stadium at Turlock High School, 1600 E. Canal Drive. Race day registration will begin at 8 a.m., however, participants are encouraged to register before the event at by emailing Cschali-lopez@turlock.k12.ca.us. The cost to attend is $25, but students with proper identification can participate for $10. A t-shirt will be provided to participants with the price of registration.
For more information, call 484-9375.
