Fairmont State University will proudly serve as host for the fourth annual Kickin’ It for Katy 5K run and walk on Saturday, May 3, aimed at raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. All event proceeds will benefit the Kaitlynn Jade Memorial Scholarship, which supports students pursuing careers in mental health. Additionally, a portion of the funds raised will support local community initiatives focused on mental health, wellness, and healing.
The event carries deep significance for the community, especially for Katy’s grandmother, Gina Dixon. Katy, a vibrant 17-year-old with dreams of becoming a medical examiner, tragically passed away four years ago, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her. “Katy was my world, and I knew I couldn’t let her death be in vain,” Dixon shared. “She was smart, full of potential, and had her entire life ahead of her. We never saw this coming, and the pain I feel every day is indescribable. Kickin’ It for Katy is how I grieve, and I’m incredibly grateful for the unwavering support from Fairmont State University and this amazing community. I couldn’t do it without them.”
The Kickin’ It for Katy 5K will kick off at 10:00 a.m., with registration for both walkers and runners beginning at 9:00 a.m. The walk will start shortly after at 10:02 a.m., all set against the beautiful backdrop of Fairmont State University’s campus. The race will begin and finish at the Falcon Center Quad, with parking available in the nearby parking garage. This family-friendly event welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels to support a meaningful cause.
The race registration fee is $25, with a discounted rate of $20 for those who sign up as part of a team. On the day of the event, registration will increase to $30. Participants can register online at Kickinitforkaty.run.
Awards will be presented to the top three men and women in each age category. The overall top three male and female finishers will earn cash prizes: $75 for first place, $50 for second, and $25 for third. Each participant will also receive three food tickets for use at food trucks, along with a Kickin’ It for Katy event T-shirt, featuring all event sponsors.
In addition to the 5K, the event will feature a festival with a range of activities. The post-race festival is free to the public and will include live music from “The 2 Sides”, a basket raffle with generous community donations, and a special memory tent where participants can honor loved ones lost to suicide. The MVA Clinic will offer games for children, and the Humane Society will host an adoption event.
Mental health and wellness resources will be available throughout the event, with awareness tables providing information about local services for mental health, addiction, and domestic violence. Participants and attendees are encouraged to learn more about these valuable resources.
Fairmont State students have access to health and wellness resources through the University’s Wellness and Mental Health Center, with in-person consultations available at the Falcon Center or virtually. Students can also visit the student health webpage for online resources. In the event of a mental health emergency or crisis, students should contact (304) 367-4357 or dial 911.
