5K for Mental Health

Posted by Nancy Gwin on Nov 14, 2025
In a powerful show of community solidarity, our club, Marblehead Rotary’s 5K for Mental Health, saw a record-breaking turnout on November 2, with 200 runners lacing up to raise $50,000. Now in its fourth year, the event is the linchpin for funding the "Inner Explorer" mindfulness program, providing critical mental health tools for every student in Marblehead Public Schools, including Cohen Hillel and Tower Schools.
The true heartbeat of the race was our community itself. The event was powered by the "all-hands-on-deck" effort of the Marblehead Rotarians and assisted by local students from organizations like Interact, who managed logistics with smiles and efficiency. From the starting line at Crocker Park to the finish at the Boston Yacht Club, where participants enjoyed hot dogs and clam chowder, the atmosphere was one of collective purpose, fueled by the sponsors, donors, and hundreds who signed up to run or walk. “This was absolutely our best event ever,” said Rotary organizer Nancy Gwin. “We even ran out of t-shirts, which is a first.”
A touching highlight was the story of one family that saw three generations medal in the event—a powerful testament to how the race resonates across ages. This spirit was echoed in the broad participation, which attracted everyone from infants in strollers to longtime community contributors. The communal effort was further amplified by supportive gestures from local officials. Board of Health member Tom McMahon, for instance, helped drive participation by pledging to donate $25 for every runner who beat him, ultimately contributing $350 to the cause. The top finishers and their achievements, alongside every participant's effort, contributed to the event's success.
2025 Race Winners: Top Female: Kristen Genbron, 2nd Overall Female: Eleanor Morgan, 3rd Overall Female: Megan Eaton
Top Male: Will Herlihy, 2nd Overall Male: Isaac Durand, 3rd Overall Male: TJ Waters
Beyond the times and trophies, the day was about a shared mission: to destigmatize mental health and equip Marblehead’s youth with the tools they need.