During National Recovery Month, runners and walkers of all ages will lace up their sneakers for the 7th Annual Marian House Race to Embrace Independence 5K Run/Walk and One-Mile Family Fun Run on Saturday, September 26, 2015.
The 5K Race to Embrace Independence raises critical funds for Marian House, an independent non-profit located in the Better Waverly neighborhood of Baltimore City that works to provide housing and comprehensive support services to women recovering from homelessness, addiction, mental illness, incarceration and/or trauma. Marian House strives to support women moving from dependence to independence.
“Over 50 percent of our residents suffer from the disease of mental illness and over 90 percent are recovering from substance abuse. These two illnesses create a very complex relationship and often the undeniable link between the two can be overlooked. That is one of the reasons we committed to hosting our 5K run during National Recovery Month,” says Katie Allston, executive director of Marian House. We hope to build awareness as well as take the day to celebrate the many accomplishment s of our women.
Every September, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation, sponsors Recovery Month to increase awareness and understanding of mental and substance use issues and celebrate the people who recover.
This year’s event will feature something for everyone. In addition to the 5K race and One-Mile Fun Run, participants and their supporters will be able to enjoy the Family Race Village that will feature food, entertainment and activities for all ages. Strollers are welcome.
Registration for the race begins at 7:30 a.m. and both events start at 9 a.m. The first 500 adults to register will receive a Marian House 5K tech shirt. Children who participate will also receive a t-shirt. On-site registration will be available; however, interested participants are encouraged to pre-register at www.marianhouse.org/5k.
Individuals unable to make the event, but still interested in supporting Marian House can make a donation online: www.marianhouse.org.
Marian House is a non-profit located in the Better Waverly neighborhood of Baltimore City that provides high quality rehabilitative services and housing to women and their children. Key services include transitional housing, employment assistance, life-skills training, rehabilitation counseling, financial guidance, family reunification and more. For more information, visit www.marianhouse.org.