THE RACE
Participants may register online or in person at GSSM. The race is facilitated by FWD. FWD stands for Fun Without Drugs, a student organization designed to promote healthy, balanced lifestyles while reducing a student's vulnerability to substance abuse. FWD sponsors student and community activities aimed at strengthening school pride, creating bonds among the student body, and creating a support system. FWD encourages activities including raising mental health awareness, empathy, social and emotional intelligence, and overall wellbeing. Each year FWD hosts the GSSM 5K for Mental Health race to raise awareness about mental health. Proceeds from this year’s race will go to “Night to Shine” in Hartsville, a prom experience for person’s 14 and older with special needs.
COUNTDOWN TO RACE
Race Swag
RACE SHIRT
Participants who register by January 31, 2026 will receive a shirt.
Participants who register on or after February 1, 2026 may receive a shirt based upon availability.
AWARDS
5K AWARDS
Top 3 Males Overall
Top 3 Females Overall
Top Racer with a Stroller
Top Male & Female in following Age Groups:
10 & Under, 11-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+
Largest GSSM Team
Largest Community Team
The Cause
Procceds from the GSSM 5K for Mental Health Awareness each year are donated to Night to Shine in Hartsville.
"Night to Shine is a complimentary event for people with special needs hosted by local churches around the world. The event is open to anyone living with disabilities, ages 14 and older. Each event is unique to its location, but some cornerstone activities included across all of them are a red carpet entrance complete with a warm welcome from a friendly crowd and paparazzi, hair and makeup stations, shoeshines, limousine rides, karaoke, gifts, a catered dinner, a Sensory Room, a Respite Room for parents and caregivers, dancing, and a crowning ceremony where every guest is honored as a King or a Queen." - Night to Shine website
