4th Annual “Using Our Voices” Mental Health Run Series

The Connetquot Varsity Softball team recently stepped up to support an important cause, joining the Connetquot Teachers Association for the 4th Annual “Using Our Voices” Mental Health Run Series — a powerful student-led initiative focused on promoting mental health awareness, wellness, and youth leadership.

Held on May 3, the event continues to grow each year and now includes participation from four Long Island school districts: Connetquot, Patchogue-Medford, North Babylon, and New Hyde Park. Grounded in the belief that students should play an active role in creating positive change, the initiative empowers young people to lead meaningful conversations surrounding mental health and wellness.

What makes the event especially impactful is that it is designed and organized entirely by students. From the planning process to race-day operations, students are involved in every aspect of the initiative, helping foster leadership, collaboration, and civic engagement while creating a supportive environment centered around mental health advocacy.

The run series focuses on sharing important messages about reducing stress and anxiety, building positive relationships, and supporting both mental and physical health through movement and community connection. Funds raised through the event help support counseling opportunities for students across Long Island while also giving students a platform to collaborate with peers from neighboring districts and contribute to a cause larger than themselves.

In addition to supporting mental health initiatives, the event also helps students work toward the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness by encouraging leadership, service, and community involvement.

Through their participation, the Connetquot Varsity Softball team demonstrated the important role student-athletes can play in supporting causes that impact their peers and communities. Their involvement helped shine a spotlight on the importance of mental health awareness while reinforcing the power of students using their voices to inspire change.

As the “Using Our Voices” Mental Health Run Series continues to grow, it stands as a meaningful example of what can happen when students are empowered to lead with compassion, purpose, and a commitment to helping others.