9th Annual KJ’s 5K for Mental Health & Animal Rescue
Portage Lakes State Park, 5031 Manchester Rd, Akron, OH 44319
In Person: Saturday, October 5, 2024
8:00 am Check in Begins
9:00 am 5K Run/Walk Start
10:30 am Awards Ceremony, Remembrance, and Presentation
Virtual Option:
KJ’s has a 5k virtual option too! A virtual 5k means you can run, walk, crawl, bike or otherwise complete the 5k without worrying about the starting line crowds at a traditional in-person 5k. The world is your trail! You can complete a 5k (3.1 mile) distance anywhere you choose, any time between September 1 through October 4! For virtual participants, your race packet will be mailed to you the first week of October. It will include a custom KJ’s 5k t-shirt & a unique custom designed finishers medal. Submit Your Virtual Results. Submit Your Virtual Results
Organization:
We run in support of local Mental Health and Animal Rescue organizations.
KJ’s 5K aims to stem the tide of the suicide epidemic. For the last 23 years, the suicide rate has increased nationwide by over 37.1%. In 2023 alone, the U.S. recorded over 49,000 deaths by suicide, over 1.5 million suicide attempts and 1 death every 11 minutes. Here in Summit County, the suicide rate stands at 17 per 100,000, or nearly 15% ABOVE the national average.
By attending KJ’s 5k, you can make a difference! Join us on Saturday, October 4th, 2025 to support suicide prevention and education in Summit County and help take care of homeless animals. Proceeds benefit Portage Path Behavioral Health and select animal charities. Donations can also be given by going to this linked fundraiser page. Donations can also be made through the registration process.
Volunteer:
If you would like to volunteer at our event please sign up under this link volunteer section.
| Price Schedule | 5K | Virtual |
|---|---|---|
| Through August 31st | $25 | – |
| Through September 30th | $20 | – |
| Race Day (October 5th) | $35 | $30 |
*Reduced price for ages 1-15!
| Schedule of Events |
|---|
| 8:00am: Race Day Registration & Packet Pickup Begins |
| 9:00am: 5K Run/Walk Begins |
| 10:30am: Awards Ceremony, Remembrance, and Presentation |
SWAG
We offer Youth Large, Adult Small to 3X-Large, & No Shirt option. After September 15th, t-shirts are first come first serve, and not guaranteed. If you registered on the 15th or before, your t-shirt will be available in the size requested.
Course Map
Awards
Overall Top 3 Men, Top 3 Women and Top 3 Youth
Race registrations are non-refundable and non-transferable.
