5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K
- Date
- August 8, 2026
- Distance
- 5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K · 5th Annual Mentoring Matters Virtual 5k
From the Organizer
The Mentoring Matters 5K run/walk hosted by the Follow My Steps nonprofit organization aims to raise awareness for the need for mentorship in under-resourced communities. Follow My Steps is a Springfield Massachusetts-based non-profit organization offering Youth Mentoring, Career & Skill Development, and Financial Resources.
YOUTH DISCOUNT APPLIED AT CHECKOUT!!!
This year, we are excited to announce the 5th annual Mentoring Matters 5K will be held at Forest Park.
Note: Registration takes place at the Monkey House.
Park in Cyr Arena Parking lot.
Runners and walkers can register as teams or individuals – and have the option to fundraise as a team.
Tee Shirt included in registration (limited availability)
ABOUT FOLLOW MY STEPS
DID YOU KNOW?
Young Adults Who Were At-Risk for Falling Off Track but Had a Mentor Are:
- 55% more likely to enroll in college
- 130% more likely to hold leadership positions.
- 78% more likely to volunteer regularly
- 90% are interested in becoming a mentor
Our organization is headed by strong professional who are dedicated to elevating under-resourced students and their families. We understand that there is a disproportionate representation of minorities in key decision-making positions in all facets of leadership in the current time. We aim to close that gap by providing deserving students with the opportunity for financial, mental, and professional education. By offering mentorships to scholarship recipients, we aim to grow a network of like-minded individuals who will continuously give back to their communities and others alike.
VIRTUAL 5K OPTION: #MentoringMatters5K
#MentoringMatters5K is a virtual, non-competitive race by Follow My Steps that allows participants to choose their preferred distance and activity, such as running, walking, or dancing. It can be completed at any time from now until August 8th, and participants are encouraged to share post-challenge photos with the hashtag #MentoringMatters5K. The $40 registration fee serves as a donation to support resources for youth empowerment, including providing school supplies, financial aid for college-bound students, and hosting skill development workshops. Participants are encouraged to track their activity time and distance using a smartphone or smartwatch
Distances & Pricing
Race Location
About This Sport
From Endurance Grid's Founder
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
Running
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Coming Up
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the 5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K?
- 5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K is a running event held in Springfield, MA. Learn more about the different endurance sports here.
- When and where is the 5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K?
- Saturday, August 8, 2026 in Springfield, MA at Forest Park(Monkey House), Springfield, MA. Check the official event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
- How do I register for the 5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K?
- Registration is handled through their official registration page. Confirm pricing, distances available, and sign up there.
5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K
Aug 8, 2026