The annual 5K, which raises awareness for mental health and suicide prevention, would not be possible without the hard work of Bayport-Blue Point student leaders.
Students hold up signs in support of 5K runners.
Students, staff, and Bayport-Blue Point community members braved the cold this past Saturday to participate in the third annual Cocoa 5K run for mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
The event is entirely student-run, many of whom have been impacted by suicide. Student leader and event organizer, senior Haley Hendershot, has been a part of the 5K since its inception. When Hendershot was a sophomore, she lost a student in her grade due to suicide, which not only had a tremendous impact on her, but also on the community at large. She, along with other student leaders, took initiative and, since then, have made advancements in their wellness center and has provided more resources for their fellow students.
“Here at Bayport-Blue Point, we talk about leaving a legacy and making things better for the future, and I truly believe that this is what this event does,” Hendershot said.
While waiting for the 5K to begin, people were invited to enjoy refreshments and visit tables set up by Great South Bay Coalition, Youth Enrichment Services, Response Crisis Center, The Neighborhood House, Great South Bay Therapy, Inspiring Wellness, and Christopher A. Coluccio Foundation.
At 8:30 a.m., elementary school students and their families made their way to the track, where the kids ran a half mile and “chased” after a student dressed up as the Grinch.
Following the half mile, all gathered outside the auditorium, where BBP School District superintendent Dr. Timothy Hearney spoke.
“Our community always comes together, whether we’re celebrating someone’s success, going through tough times, or even a tragedy. This is really what is so special about this place. So today, we run or walk to raise awareness for suicide prevention and to support mental health, which affects us all in some way.”
Additionally, Hearney acknowledged all the students who organized the event and made it a success. He also congratulated elementary school student Quinn on her design being chosen for the T-shirts this year.
Hendershot led the elementary school students in the national anthem. Afterward, everyone went to the starting line where the 5K began.