DEFENDERS ASSEMBLE "AND EVERYONE ASSEMBLED HERE WILL KNOW THAT THE LORD RESCUES HIS PEOPLE, BUT NOT WITH SWORD AND SPEAR. THIS IS THE LORD'S BATTLE, AND HE WILL GIVE YOU TO US." 1 SAMUEL 17:47 NLT

Our mission is to stand as Avengers defending Mental Health- called to take our place, put on the full armor of God, and stand firm in faith. We recognize that the battle for mental wellness is real, but it is not fought alone. Guided by God's strength, inspired by courage of Avengers and protected by His armor, we unite to raise awareness, break stigma, and support healing for those affected by mental health challenges. The fight belongs to the Lord, and together, we walk forward with courage, hope and faith. Guided by faith and united in purpose, we stand as defenders-protecting minds, restoring hope and walking together toward healing.

FAITH IS OUR SHIELD. HEALING IS OUR MISSION. "PUT ON THE FULL ARMOR OF GOD." EPHESIANS 6:10-18

Join us for the 5th Annual Brett J Morris Avenger Foundation Mental Health Awareness 5K (previously held in June), where faith meets action. Together, we run to break stigma, raise awareness, and stand strong for those battling mental health challenges. We invite participants of all ages to become _DEFENDERS of MENTAL HEALTH_ for a day of fun, fellowship, and impact.

"FOR THE BATTLE IS NOT YOURS, BUT GOD'S." 2 CHRONICLES 20:15

RACE-DAY HIGHLIGHTS & PARTICIPANT INTERACTIONS

_DRESS AS A DEFENDER: _Show your heroic side! Dress as a superhero, Avenger, "real life hero" (first responder, health care provider, military), or faith-inspired defender/biblical character. Capes, masks, shields, crosses, or armor-themed accessories are encouraged-let your creativity shine!

_SHIELD WALL PHOTO STATION: _Strike a pose at our superhero photo station! Use our shields, capes, armor and masks to create epic memories. Photos are perfect for social media and sharing our mission.

_ARMOR UP STATION: _Before the race, pick up a wristband or sticker representing Faith, Hope, Courage and Strength. Symbolically put on your "armor" as you prepare to run.

_PRAYER SHIELD WALL: _Write your name, a friend/family/coworkers name, a word, or an intention on a shield and place it on our prayer wall. We will have volunteers pray over these during the race.



RACE DAY INFO AND REGISTRATION

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION Jan 1st-Feb 16th $40

OPEN REGISTRATION Feb 17th-August 20th $50**

LATE REGISTRATION August 21st-September 18th $60

VIRTUAL REGISTRATION CLOSES SEPT 4TH

_**Registration DEADLINE FOR GUARANTEE OF Shirt, Coin, Swag Bag is SEPTEMBER 4TH, 2026_

WHAT IS INCLUDED:

* _SPECIAL EDITION 5th Annual commemorative coin (only guaranteed if registered by Sept 4th and must pick up by race day to guarantee)_
* _T-shirt/Tank and SwagBag__ (ONLY GUARANTEED IF REGISTERED BY SEPT 4TH AND MUST PICK UP BY RACE DAY TO GUARANTEE)_
* _Prizes, Awards and Certificates for those that qualify_
* _1 FREE Raffle Ticket for our Giveaway (additional available for purchase)_
* _Snacks and Drinks (Food Trucks on site for purchase)_

WINNERS GIFTS/PRIZES:

* _FREE PAIR OF SHOES for To__p Male, Top Female and Top Rucker. _
* _$50 Gift Card to GameChangers for 2nd Place _
* _$25 Gift Card to GameChangers for 3rd Place. _
* _Top Age Group Awards and Certificates (100U-10U age groups)_



_HISTORY OF OUR FOUNDATION: OUR NON PROFIT 501C3 WAS STARTED IN 2022 IN MEMORY OF 20 YEAR ARMY VETERAN, BRETT J MORRIS. BRETT SERVED 8 COMBAT TOURS AS 3/160TH NIGHT STALKER AND A COMBINED 20YRS OF SERVICE AS A US ARMY RESERVIST. BRETT LOST HIS BATTLE OF PTSD, CHRONIC PAIN AND DEPRESSION BY SUICIDE ON SEPT. 10, 2021. OUR PROCEEDS GO BACK TO FAMILIES IN OUR MILITARY, 1ST RESPONDERS AND YOUTH COMMUNITIES WHO ARE STRUCK BY LOSS, TRAGEDY OR HARDSHIPS. IN ADDITION, WE OFFER MULTIPLE ATHLETE SCHOLARSHIPS TO OUR LOCAL SCHOOLS, AS WELL AS, INVEST IN SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY EVENTS TO EDUCATE, BRING HOPE AND SHOW GOD'S LOVE THROUGH ALL THOSE WHO ARE AFFECTED BY MENTAL ILLNESS. _