"Using our Voices" Mental Health Run Series - Center Moriches

🏃‍♂️ Race Overview

The student led "Using Our Voices" Mental Health Run Series was created by Center Moriches & North Babylon Student Leaders as a follow-up to PS I Love You Day. This event is grounded in the belief that students should be part of the change process, with genuine inclusivity achieved through active student engagement. It has now grown to include four districts: Center Moriches, North Babylon, Connetquot, and Patchogue-Medford.

💰 Impact of the Event

• Funds Raised: Last year, we raised $20,000.
• Participants: Over 700 students participated—completely free of charge.
• Support Provided: The funds supported students across Long Island by providing counseling opportunities.
• Engagement: Students had the platform to display leadership, collaborate with peers from other districts, and contribute to an important cause.

📅 Event Details

The event is designed and executed entirely by students, who are involved in every aspect, from planning to race day logistics. The goal is to share crucial messages about reducing stress and anxiety, building relationships, and supporting mental and physical health through movement.

• Empowerment: This initiative empowers students to work toward the NYS Seal of Civic Readiness.
• Civic Engagement: Fosters civic engagement and community-mindedness.

🎗️ Support and Participation

By supporting this series, you help students across the island unite for a cause that matters—promoting mental health and wellness. All proceeds benefit mental health organizations that work directly with our youth, amplifying the positive impact of this event.

• Collaboration: Together, with the help of North Babylon, Connetquot, and now Patchogue-Medford, we are excited to make this year's event even better!
• Join Us: Join us in supporting this one-of-a-kind, student-led event series—where students use their voices, have fun, and build a network of positivity across Long Island.

✨ Empowerment Message

When kids are empowered, magical things happen!

📞 Race Directors/School Contacts

• Center Moriches: Katy Forman, kforman@cmschools.org
• North Babylon: Meghan Kelly, mkelly@northbabylonschools.org
• Connetquot: Lauren Neckin, lneckin@ccsdli.org
• Pat-Med: Thomas Piccirillo TPiccirillo@pmschools.org, Danielle Steinberg dsteinberg@pmschools.org

🌐 More Information

For additional details, visit the official race page: Using our Voices Mental Health Run Series.