5th Annual Brett J Morris Avenger Foundation Defenders of Mental Health 5K
FAITH IS OUR SHIELD. HEALING IS OUR MISSION. "Put on the full armor of God." Ephesians 6:11
Our mission is to stand as Avengers defending Mental Health- called to take our place, put on the full armor of God, and stand firm in faith. We recognize that the battle for mental wellness is real, but it is not fought alone. Guided by God's strength, inspired by courage of Avengers and protected by His armor, we unite to raise awareness, break stigma, and support healing for those affected by mental health challenges and PTSD. The fight belongs to the Lord, and together, we walk forward with courage, hope and faith. Guided by faith and united in purpose, we stand as defenders-protecting minds, restoring hope and walking together toward healing. "For the battle is not yours, but God's." 2 Chronicles 20:15
Join us for the 5th Annual Brett J Morris Avenger Foundation Defenders of Mental Health 5K, where faith meets action. Together, we run to break stigma, raise awareness, and stand strong for those battling mental health challenges and PTSD. We invite participants of all ages to become DEFENDERS of MENTAL HEALTH for a day of fun, fellowship, and impact.
RACE-DAY HIGHLIGHTS & PARTICIPANT INTERACTIONS
- Dress as a Defender: Show your heroic side! Dress as a superhero, Avenger, "real life hero" (first responder, health care provider, military), or faith-inspired defender/biblical character. Capes, masks, shields, crosses, or armor-themed accessories are encouraged-let your creativity shine!
- Hero Squads: Join as a team and run together as a squad. Example teams: Guardians, Shield Bearers, Faith Force, or Hope Warriors. Squad members will receive matching bib stickers and can participate in group shout-outs and photos.
- Costume Contest: Compete for glory! Categories include: Best Defender/Avenger Costume, Best Faith-Inspired Hero, Best Squad Team, Most Creative/Fun, Best Mental Health Awareness Theme.
- SHIELD WALL PHOTO STATION: Strike a pose at our superhero photo station! Use our shields, capes, and masks to create epic memories. Photos are perfect for social media and sharing our mission.
- ARMOR UP STATION: Before the race, pick up a wristband or sticker representing Faith, Hope, Courage and Strength. Symbolically put on your "armor" as you prepare to run.
- PRAYER SHIELD WALL: Write your name, a friend/family/coworkers name, a word, or an intention on a paper shield and place it on our prayer wall. We will have volunteers pray over these during the race.
VIRTUAL HERO ENGAGEMENT:
- Join our online community before the race: Take our "Hero Name Generator" quiz to discover your Defender Identity (Mind Guardian, Shield of Faith, Hope Warrior, etc.) and then add your Hero Name to our Hero Name Wall on Race Day. Take the quiz and share your superhero name with us using #DefendersofMentalHealth https://play.howstuffworks.com/quiz/whats-your-superhero-name
- Share your superhero story on social media with our hashtag: #DefendersofMentalHealth #AvengetheBattleWithin #FaithisOurShield #HeroesAssembleforHealing
RACE DAY INFO AND REGISTRATION
- Early Bird Registration: Jan 1st-Feb 16th - $40
- Open Registration: Feb 17th-August 20th - $50**
- Late Registration: August 21st-September 18th - $60
- VIRTUAL REGISTRATION CLOSES: Sept 4th
- **Registration DEADLINE FOR GUARANTEE OF Shirt, Coin, Swag Bag is September 4th, 2026
WHAT IS INCLUDED:
- SPECIAL EDITION 5th Annual commemorative coin (received when you cross finish line on game day)
- T-shirt/Tank and SwagBag (only guaranteed if registered by Sept 4th and must pick up by race day to guarantee)
- Prizes, Awards and Certificates for those that qualify
- 1 FREE Raffle Ticket for our Giveaway (additional available for purchase)
- Snacks and Drinks
WINNERS GIFTS/PRIZES:
- FREE PAIR OF SHOES for Top Male, Top Female and Top Rucker.
- $50 Gift Card to GameChangers for 2nd Place
- $25 Gift Card to GameChangers for 3rd Place.
- Top Age Group Awards and Certificates (100U-10U age groups)
History of our Foundation:
Our non profit 501c was started in 2022 in memory of 20 year Army Veteran, Brett J Morris. Brett served 8 combat tours as 3/160th Night Stalker and a combined 20yrs of service as a US Army Reservist. Brett lost his battle of PTSD, chronic pain and depression by suicide on Sept. 10, 2021. Our proceeds go back to families in our military, 1st responders and youth communities who are struck by loss, tragedy or hardships. In addition, we offer multiple athlete scholarships to our local schools, as well as, invest in social and community events to educate, bring hope and show God's love through all those who are affected by mental illness.