Notre Dame Prep to hold its first virtual 5K

Notre Dame Prep in Scottsdale is partnering with notMYkid to host the first Saints virtual 5K to help fund programs for teens coping with anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.

Set to be an annual event, the race is scheduled for Saturday, March 20, but since it is virtual, runners and walkers can participate any time, any place from March 13 to March 20, according to a press release.

Runners are encouraged to take a selfie in their race shirt and post on social media using the hashtag #SaintsStrong. T-shirts will be mailed to those who sign up for the virtual run.

Proceeds from the race will go to support the mental health programs offered through Amplif[i] the teen empowerment entity of notMykid, the release said.

“The struggle is real. Teen mental health issues are rising as a direct result of the year-long pandemic,” said NDP president/principal Jill Platt in a prepared statement. “This past year has been very hard on everyone, but especially teens.”

The first event the school has hosted on campus since 2019, Notre Dame Prep has received permission from the city of Scottsdale to host the small, in-person fun run at the school for their students only on Saturday, March 20, noted the release.

“We are looking forward to giving our students a chance to make a difference, have some fun and feel somewhat normal,” Ms. Platt said. “We hope the community will join in virtually for this important cause.”

Notre Dame Prep, 9701 E. Bell Road in Scottsdale, is a Catholic diocesan college preparatory high school with a co-ed enrollment of 804 students. The school has received national recognition for the caliber of its academic, arts and athletic programs.

notMYkid is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides children and families with lifesaving programs, support, resources, and education is designed to empower and educate youth, families, and communities with the knowledge and courage, identifying and preventing negative youth behavior.

The cost is $25. Registration is available at: ndpsaints.org/Saints5K