Each September, Byrd Park transforms into something extraordinary: a celebration of courage, connection, and conversation. This year’s SpeakUp5k—happening on Saturday, September 6—is not just a race. It’s a chance for families across Richmond to take a stand for teen mental health.
Born from the vision of Richmond teen Cameron Gallagher, the SpeakUp5k is a high-energy, family-friendly event filled with bubbles, fun zones, and uplifting messages along the course. But more than that, it’s a heartfelt tribute to a young girl who wanted to change the world—and is doing exactly that through the work of the Cameron K. Gallagher Foundation (CKG).
“Cameron believed that no one should feel alone in their mental health journey,” says Executive Director Tara Lantz. “The SpeakUp5k was her idea. She wanted to create something fun and inviting, where teens and families could talk about mental health without fear or shame.”
Cameron’s message lives on through the Foundation’s work in schools, community groups, and youth organizations across the region. CKG provides free programs that promote mental wellness, self-awareness, and resilience in young people.
“Each time a teen says, ‘I didn’t know anyone else felt this way,’ we know we’re doing what Cameron hoped we would,” says Director of Mental Health Education Catie-Reagan King. “And when they come out to the SpeakUp5k, they see hundreds of others running and walking beside them. That visual reminder of support is incredibly powerful.”
This year’s race will feature interactive stations along the course, a post-race festival, music, food trucks, and local partners dedicated to mental wellness. Families, walkers, runners, and strollers are welcome because every voice, every step, and every story matters.
“Our theme is always ‘SpeakUp’ which means speaking up for yourself, for someone you love, or for the cause of mental health,” says Tara Lantz. “Whether you’re running in memory of someone or just showing up to support the community, your presence makes a difference.”
The SpeakUp5k is open to all, regardless of athletic ability or experience. It’s not about how fast you finish; it’s about showing up.
We invite families to experience what Cameron dreamed of: joy, community, and the freedom to speak up. This race is her legacy, and Richmond makes it more beautiful every year.
The ripple effect of the SpeakUp5k goes far beyond race day. Every registration, every social media share, and every step taken helps fund year-round mental health education for teens in Richmond and beyond. Through programs like SpeakUp Clubs at schools and free digital toolkits, CKG is giving young people the tools to manage their emotions, seek help when they need it, and support their peers.
“Our programs are about empowering teens to understand themselves and others,” says Catie-Reagan King. “The SpeakUp5k is where many people first hear about us, but the impact continues in classrooms, school auditoriums, and kitchen tables.”
Families who have attended the race often say it becomes a tradition not just for the fun, but for the meaningful conversations that follow.
“I walked the race with my daughter, and afterward she opened up about things I didn’t know she was carrying,” shared one Richmond parent. “It gave us a space to talk, without judgment.”
In a time when teen mental health is more important than ever, the SpeakUp5k offers a space to gather, move, reflect, and connect with joy and without stigma.
So, this September, join us. Be part of something real. Be part of something lasting. Be part of the SpeakUp5k.
Race Details:
· Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
· Location: Byrd Park, Richmond, VA
· Start Time: 9:00am · Register: ckgfoundation.org/speakup5k
