2nd Annual Run 4 Jesus 5k

The 2nd Annual Run 4 Jesus 5k is a high-impact community event in Vicksburg, Mississippi, featuring a unique route across the Old Mississippi River Bridge. Scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 8:00 AM CDT, the race serves as a vital fundraiser for the local recovery community. Specifically, the proceeds support S.W.A.G. Ministries for men and Serenity House, a female sober living facility, helping to maintain and expand residential resources for those in transition.

Participants have the rare opportunity to run or walk atop the bridge, offering expansive views of the Mississippi River. The event is structured for both competitive runners and casual walkers, with a firm finish line cutoff at 9:30 AM to ensure safety on the bridge. Packet pickup is conveniently located at the Welcome Center parking lot on the morning of the race, beginning at 6:30 AM.

Vicksburg is a historic city in Warren County, Mississippi, with a population of approximately 21,000 residents. Situated on a high bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, the city is a significant center for river commerce and tourism. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the demographic profile of Vicksburg is approximately 66.5% Black or African American, 29.2% White (non-Hispanic), 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, and 0.8% Asian. The city’s culture is deeply influenced by its Civil War history and its role as a regional hub for the Yazoo Delta.

The local culture in Vicksburg is characterized by a strong faith-based tradition and a community-wide commitment to social services. Recovery initiatives, like those led by S.W.A.G. Ministries and Serenity House, are central to addressing the region's challenges with substance use and housing stability. The Run 4 Jesus 5k exemplifies this "community-first" mentality, bringing together residents from various backgrounds to support the physical and spiritual restoration of their neighbors. The race starting with a collective prayer at 7:55 AM reflects the foundational values of the local organizers and participants.

The 2026 event has already drawn 13 dedicated participants in the early registration phase. By supporting sober living houses, participants are directly funding safe, structured environments that reduce recidivism and help individuals reintegrate into the workforce. In a region where residential recovery options can be limited, the funds from this race provide a lifeline for both men and women seeking long-term sobriety.

For those running or walking, the experience of crossing the Mississippi River Bridge provides a powerful metaphor for the journey of recovery—moving from one side of a struggle to a place of safety and support. The collaboration between local ministries and the Vicksburg Welcome Center ensures a high-quality event that honors the city's landmarks while serving its most vulnerable citizens. Every step taken on the bridge on May 2nd is a step toward a stronger, more resilient Vicksburg community.