By Geena Monahan—For the North Star Reporter
North Attleborough High School’s Active Minds chapter invites the community to take part in its second annual Miles for Mental Health 5K, aimed at expanding conversations around mental health beyond the classroom.
The walk/run will take place Saturday, May 16, at 9 a.m., with check-in and the starting line at Beaupre Field on the high school campus.
Open to participants of all ages, the event is designed to promote mental health awareness while raising funds to support programming, both locally and through the national Active Minds organization.
“We felt like we were doing a lot within our school to de-stigmatize mental health, but not really reaching out to the community as much,” said senior Angelina Bostock, the chapter’s president. “This is our way to engage the broader community and surrounding towns.”
Active Minds, a national organization focused on mental health awareness and education, is a relatively new addition at North Attleborough High School, according to Bostock. The student-led chapter has grown steadily, and holds meetings and activities during school flex periods centered on stress relief, self-reflection and open discussion.
The group also creates encouraging posters, stress balls and hosts conversations about mental health and self-esteem — all to reduce stigma and encourage students to seek help when needed.
Bostock, who joined the club as a freshman, following in the footsteps of her older sisters, said seeing the impact of those efforts firsthand motivated her to take on a leadership role.
“Actually being in it and seeing the impact we could have on people is what really drove my interest,” she said.
Students have led much of the planning effort, dividing responsibilities among chapter officers and grade-level representatives. School staff have also supported the process, helping students connect with administrators and coordinate logistics.
Expanding impact
Proceeds from the 5K will help fund future initiatives, including bringing guest speakers to the school and supporting broader Active Minds programming. Bostock said those speakers can play a key role in reaching a wider audience, but often come with significant costs.
Earlier this year, the chapter hosted Dr. Jonathan Jenkins, a sports psychologist who serves as the team clinician for the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox.
The 5K has received support from sponsors, including the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and KyleCares, which provided grants to help cover planning costs.
On race day, participants can expect lawn games, music and raffle prizes, including Red Sox tickets and gift cards to local businesses.
Registration is $15 for students and $25 for non-students. Bib pickup will begin at 8 a.m., and the first 100 registrants will receive a complimentary race shirt.
Those interested can register at https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/NorthAttleboro/ActiveMinds5KKidsFunRun. Questions can be directed to mgaffney@naschools.net
By the end of April, about 40 participants had registered — already ahead of where organizers were at the same point last year. With more time to plan, Bostock said organizers are optimistic about increased turnout and a smoother event.
While the 5K serves as the chapter’s primary fundraiser, Bostock said the broader goal is to encourage everyday awareness and connection.
“For everyone in their everyday interactions, that’s a very big way they can help others,” she said. “Check up on your friends — even people who seem OK. That can have an even bigger impact than attending events like this.”