ERC STRIDE 5K FOR MENTAL HEALTH

ERC STRIDE 5K Weather Update — October 9, 2026, 3:20pm

Dear STRIDE Participants,

On behalf of the Board of Directors and Senior Leadership of Empowerment Resource Center (ERC), thank you for registering for the 2026 ERC STRIDE 5K Run/Walk for Mental Health Awareness, scheduled for Saturday, October 10, 2026.

Due to anticipated severe weather associated with the approaching hurricane, we have made the difficult decision to postpone the event. Although STRIDE was planned to take place rain or shine, the safety of our participants, volunteers, sponsors, and staff remains our top priority.

We understand this news is disappointing and sincerely appreciate your enthusiasm, understanding, and continued support.

What's Next?

We are currently in discussions with the City of Atlanta's Mayor's Office of Special Events to explore the possibility of rescheduling the STRIDE 5K. While we remain hopeful that a new date can be secured, rescheduling is subject to availability and city approval.

We anticipate providing an update on the status of the event within the next 7–14 business days and appreciate your patience as we evaluate our options.

Registration Fees

As outlined during registration, all registration fees are nonrefundable. Please know that your contributions continue to support ERC's mission of expanding access to medical and behavioral health services for uninsured and underinsured individuals and families.

While we may not gather as planned on World Mental Health Day, our commitment to mental health awareness and community wellness remains unchanged.

Thank you for standing with ERC. We look forward to the opportunity to bring our STRIDE community together again!

With appreciation,

ERC Board of Directors & Senior Leadership
Empowerment Resource Center, Inc.

Stride With Us for Mental Health Awareness 2026!

Empowerment Resource Center invites you to be part of something powerful: the ERC Stride 5K for Mental Health Awareness, happening on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at the beautiful Shirley C. Franklin/Westside Park in Atlanta.

Whether you joined us in 2025 or you’re stepping in for the first time, this event brings our community together to celebrate resilience, promote wellness, and break the stigma surrounding mental health. 💚

* Race Day Registration will be available via QR code for $50 (Credit card or debit card only). No cash or check will be accepted. 

Event Highlights

✔ Elite race timing
✔ Exclusive 2026 swag and giveaways
✔ EMPOWERFEST community celebration with music, vendors, and wellness resources
✔ A mission that truly matters — real impact, real change

Event Schedule

☀️🌧️ WE’RE STRIDING RAIN OR SHINE!

The ERC STRIDE 5K will take place rain or shine! Dress for the weather, bring your energy, and let’s make it a morning to remember.

8:30 AM | Check-in and Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast and music before the race.

9:00 AM | Welcome and Opening Remarks
Hear event announcements and the morning’s schedule.

9:10 AM | Group Warm-Up
Get moving with Hoola Hoop Hotties.

9:20 AM | Race Lineup
Head to the starting line.

9:30 AM | 5K Begins
Runners and walkers take to the course.

10:30 AM | Community Acknowledgements
Celebrate our sponsors, volunteers, and top fundraisers.

10:45 AM | Awards Ceremony
Celebrate runners with the fastest times.

11:00 AM | Behavioral Health Testimonials
Hear personal stories from our community.

11:00 AM | Empowerfest
Visit vendors and connect with the community.

11:15 AM | Closing Remarks
Learn about ways to stay involved and support the mission.

12:15 PM | Event Wrap-Up
Enjoy music, photos, and socializing as the event concludes.

Why Stride With Us?

Every step you take helps destigmatize conversations around mental health and brings us closer to a future where everyone has access to the care and support they deserve. All proceeds directly fund therapeutic sessions for low-income individuals, ensuring more people in our community have access to the care they deserve.

Be part of the movement that keeps Atlanta moving for awareness, for action, for empowerment.

Register early, bring your friends, and let’s make 2026 our strongest stride yet!

So grab your friends, lace up your shoes, and stride with us for awareness, action, and empowerment!