Outrun the Darkness 5K, 9.88K, Kids’ Fun Run and Candlelight Ceremony

💔 Every 12.3 minutes, someone in the U.S. succumbs to suicide. That's 132 lives lost daily and over half a million annually. In Luzerne County alone, there were 54 tragic losses in 2024. Suicide is now the leading cause of death among young individuals aged 10-24.

To combat this alarming trend, the Friends of Rachel Club at Hazleton Area High School proudly presents our 2nd Annual Suicide Prevention and Awareness Race. This event plays a crucial role in our mission to raise awareness, advocate for mental health, and create a united community supporting those affected by suicide.

🏃‍♀️ Race Options:

• 9.88K (in honor of the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number)
• 5K
• 1 Mile Memory Walk/Run
• Kids’ Fun Run

🌍 Can’t join us onsite? Participate virtually in the 9.88K or 5K from anywhere! You'll receive the same t-shirt! Just a note: no awards or results are given for virtual runs, but you're still making a difference!

🤝 We encourage everyone—runners, walkers, families, friends, and community members—to participate. Whether you register individually, form a team, or support our runners, every involvement counts!

🎉 Post-Race Festivities:
Join us after the race for food trucks, tricky trays, kids’ activities, and our Light the Night Luminaria Ceremony. This special event offers a vital sense of community for suicide loss survivors and mental health advocates, allowing us to honor those we've lost.

🩸 All proceeds directly benefit the Friends of Rachel Club’s mental health and suicide prevention initiatives in the Hazleton Area School District.

👟 Get ready to lace up your shoes and make a lasting impact! The 9.88K and 5K will be professionally timed by Second Wind Racing. Remember to wear your bib visibly and correctly for accurate timing. Results will be posted live and on-site!

Event Details:
📍 Where: 1400 W 23rd St, Hazleton, PA 18202
🗓️ When: Saturday, May 16, 2026
🌧️ Rain or Shine—No refunds.
🔗 Join the event on Facebook!