City of Philadelphia
The DBHIDS-led ‘Walk, Run, Stroll, and Roll’ will promote awareness of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and connect residents with mental health resources
For Immediate Release: March 20, 2026
Contact: Christina.Crews@phila.gov
PHILADELPHIA – Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and Kehinde Solanke, Commissioner of the City’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS), announced today the inaugural 988 5K Walk, Run, Stroll, and Roll will take place May 17 starting near MLK Drive and Eakins Oval.
Mandatory registration for this free event is now open. The event will begin near Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Eakins Oval and will follow a loop course that finishes near the same location. Check-in begins at 7 a.m. with runners starting at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 17.
“We are proud to launch the inaugural 988 5K here in Philadelphia,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “This event reflects what our city is all about — neighbors supporting neighbors and showing up for one another. By bringing people together, we’re raising awareness about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, reducing the stigma around mental and behavioral health, and reminding Philadelphians that if you or someone you love needs help, you can call or text 988 and connect with support.”
Taking place during Mental Health Awareness Month, the 988 5K calls on Philadelphians to prioritize their emotional well-being and support loved ones in doing the same. Research continues to show that physical activity, including walking and running, can reduce stress, improve mood, and strengthen resilience. The inclusive nature of this event ensures that participants of all ages and abilities can take part while learning about the life-saving resources available through 988 and DBHIDS.
“As our united city continues to mark this historic year, our focus is not only on celebration, it’s also on the health and well-being of every Philadelphian,” DBHIDS Commissioner Kehinde Solanke said. “The 988 5K is more than a walk, run, stroll, or roll, it’s part of a citywide commitment to prioritize mental health. Every step taken on May 17 helps break stigma, spark conversation, and connect our community to critical, lifesaving supports and services. And we need residents to know that they matter.”
Participants and supporters are encouraged to join the free event to enjoy a welcoming, family-friendly and pet-friendly atmosphere featuring music, wellness resources, and information about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Community partners will be on site to share tools, services, and guidance for anyone seeking help for themselves or others as we unite to reinforce a simple, powerful message: You are not alone.
The 988 5K Walk, Run, Stroll, and Roll is part of the Parker Administration’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Philadelphia’s behavioral health and wellness ecosystem and ensuring residents can access support when they need it.
Residents can register and learn more at DBHIDS.org/988-5K. For more information about DBHIDS, visit DBHIDS.org.
###
The City of Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS), part of the City’s Department of Health and Human Services, offers behavioral health care, intellectual disability supports, and early intervention services in one comprehensive integrated system. For more information about DBHIDS, visit DBHIDS.org.