PELHAM, N.H. — More than 320 registered participants laced up their running shoes on Sunday, May 31, as the Pelham Community Coalition hosted its second annual Outrun Addiction 5K at Meetinghouse Park. The event brought together runners, walkers, families, local organizations, and community supporters in a powerful show of unity against substance misuse and in support of addiction prevention and recovery efforts. The race was held in partnership with Outrun Addiction from Enfield, CT, and featured both a 5K run/walk and a 2-mile walk.
The growing turnout marked a significant increase from the inaugural event and highlighted the community’s continued commitment to raising awareness about the impact of addiction while promoting healthy lifestyles and positive connections.
Participants of all ages gathered early Sunday morning before setting off through the course, creating an atmosphere filled with encouragement, remembrance, and hope. Many runners wore shirts honoring loved ones affected by addiction, while others participated to support prevention initiatives and recovery efforts throughout the region. As part of the event, attendees viewed the Pelham Community Coalition’s ongoing memorial photo display recognizing those lost to substance use disorder.
“The incredible response from the community exceeded our expectations,” organizers said. “Seeing more than 350 people come together to run, walk, and volunteer for this cause demonstrates that Pelham is committed to supporting individuals and families impacted by addiction while working to prevent substance misuse before it starts.”
In addition to the race itself, the event served as an opportunity to educate residents about prevention resources, recovery support services, and the importance of reducing the stigma surrounding substance use disorders with the Coalition debuting their new Cues & Clues mock bedroom trailer. The trailer was a year-long project which was delivered to Pelham in May. The Pelham Community Coalition donated the trailer to the Pelham Police Department, a longtime partner in the Coalition's community outreach and prevention efforts.
Proceeds from the event will help support addiction prevention education and provide scholarships for local high school students affected by addiction or pursuing a career in social work, a medical field, or as a first responder.
Community members, local businesses, sponsors, volunteers, and public safety personnel all played a role in making the event a success. Organizers expressed gratitude to everyone who participated, donated, volunteered, or helped spread awareness about the race.
As the finish line celebrations concluded, many participants were already looking ahead to next year’s event, which organizers hope will continue to grow and strengthen Pelham’s efforts to build a healthier, more connected community.
The Pelham Community Coalition’s Outrun Addiction 5K has quickly become one of the community’s signature events, bringing residents together around a shared message: recovery is possible, prevention matters, and no one has to face addiction alone.
Visit www.PelhamCoalition.org for a list of free events where the Cues & Clues trailer will be offered to help educate parents and guardians on the hidden risks in teens’ spaces.
