Register now to run for the Crisis Center’s Just A Call Away 5K and fun run at Sloss Furnaces on August 11

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Birmingham, Alabama, Crisis Center
All serious or smiles? Either way, get ready to run for a cause that benefits all of us. Photo via Crisis Center

Help the Crisis Center set a new pace for FREE mental health services in Birmingham by registering TODAY for the Just A Call Away 5K and Fun Run on August 11 at Sloss Furnaces. Race starts at 8 a.m.

You can always count on the voice at the other end of the line at the Crisis Center. They’re that spark of light when it feels like you’re in the dark. They’re able to be there for so many others because of support from the central Alabama community. It doesn’t matter how young you are, or how fast you run, this charity event is meant for everyone.

Runners of all ages and abilities are welcome, along with strollers and pets. Sign up via this link.

Birmingham, Alabama, Crisis Center
Everyone will cheer you on to the finish line at the Just A Call Away 5K And Fun Run. Photo via Crisis Center

Previous race participant Amanda Coile is an avid runner who also owns Sprout & Pour, the cold-press juicery in Homewood (that’s moving to Morris Avenue in Downtown Birmingham), and she says that if you’re thinking about registering don’t hesitateeven if it’s your first 5K.

“I’ve been running for a long time, competitively since elementary school, and the Just A Call Way 5K is really for everyone,” Coile said.

“This one is meaningful for me. It’s personal because I believe that we’re all human and these services help us all. It’s just great to know that they’re there.  Doesn’t matter if you are walking with your dog or running against the clock, we’re all here for the same reason.”

Walk, Run, Register Now

Here’s something new for this year, too. The 5K and fun run will be held at Sloss Furnaces, a different venue than in previous race years.

Birmingham, Alabama, Sloss Furnaces
Ready to run? O.k., you can walk, too. Bring the dogs and kids! Photo via Bham Now

The 5K course routes runners through the vibrant Lakeview district, and the fun run routes participants through the national historic landmark with great views of Birmingham’s industrial museum along the way.

The event is family friendly and includes many fun activities for persons of all ages, too. Activities like:

  • awards ceremony
  • bounce house and obstacle course for kids
  • face painting
  • lawn games
  • photo booths
  • yoga and more

The entry fee for the 5K is $30. The fun run is $20. Register here.

Birmingham, Alabama, Crisis Center
Warming up before the race. Photo via Crisis Center
Running Out Of Stigma

The Crisis Center is a resource that’s FREE and available all the time. Five phone lines are open and available 24/7/365 to serve the unmet needs of people experiencing personal crises or mental health issues. Volunteers are there,  with a listening ear and providing services that promote coping, emotional health and well-being.

The Crisis Center really is just a call away. All the numbers you need are right here. You can choose from:

  • Crisis and Suicide Line: 205.323.7777
  • Recovery Resource Center: 205.458.3377
  • Rape Response: 205.323.7273
  • Senior Talk Line: 205.328.8255
  • Teen Link/Kid’s Help Line: 205.328.5465 (text enabled)
Birmingham, Alabama, Crisis Center
Honoring others is also a big part of the run. Photo via Crisis Center

Their primary service area is central Alabama, including:

  • Blount County
  • Jefferson County
  • Shelby County
  • St. Clair County
  • Walker County
Birmingham, Alabama, Crisis Center
By running in the Just A Call Away 5K And Fun Run, you’ll be helping the Crisis Center train more volunteers. Photo via Crisis Center
Race Divisions

Chip timing is optional, and participants are eligible to compete for these awards:

  • Top Three overall male/female
  • Top Three overall masters male/female
  • Top Three male/female by age group, broken down into the following categories:
  • 8 and under
  • 9-14
  • 15-19
  • 20-24
  • 25-29
  • 30-24
  • 35-39
  • 40-44
  • 45-49
  • 50-54
  • 55-59
  • 60-64
  • 70+
Birmingham, Alabama, Crisis Center
Wanda Miller, Ellen Burcham Scheirer and Angela Clayton, officers with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, also volunteer on race day. Photo via Crisis Center

The Just A Call Away 5K & Fun Run was born from collaboration between the Crisis Center and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department. Investigators from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department dreamed of this event, identifying a need to promote the services of the Crisis Center to a broader cross section of the community. This event helps spread awareness of these services. Funds raised by the 5K help support the Crisis Center’s efforts.

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logo 2017 a Register now to run for the Crisis Center's Just A Call Away 5K and fun run at Sloss Furnaces on August 11

JHDaniel
JHDaniel
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