"Your Story Matters"

The "Your Story Matters" Falcon 5K is a community-focused event dedicated to mental health awareness, scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026. Hosted at the Jefferson Township High School athletic complex in Oak Ridge, NJ, the day features a blend of physical activity and resource sharing. Local non-profit mental health organizations will be on-site to provide information on services and programs. Proceeds from the event support the Jefferson Township Education Foundation and the Middle School Positive Behavior Support In Schools (PBSIS) Program, specifically targeting social-emotional learning opportunities and wellness initiatives for students.

Race Logistics and Participation

The 5K utilizes the high school's established cross-country trail, offering a natural terrain experience for runners, joggers, and walkers. For the Youth Color Fun Run, children are encouraged to wear white t-shirts to best showcase the color powder used during the lap. Online registration remains open until the evening of April 25, though in-person registration is available on race morning starting at 7:00 AM at the track. Early registrants are prioritized for event t-shirts and goodie bags. Awards are presented to the top three overall male and female finishers, as well as the top three in each ten-year age category.

Regional and Community Context

Oak Ridge is a community within Jefferson Township, located in the rugged highlands of Morris County, New Jersey. The area is characterized by its significant natural landscapes, including several lakes and dense forest tracts, which provide the backdrop for the high school's technical cross-country course. The township serves as a residential hub for professionals commuting to the New York metropolitan area and the pharmaceutical corridors of Northern New Jersey. The local culture places a high value on public education and community-driven support systems.

The geography of Oak Ridge is defined by the Bearfort Ridge and the surrounding Pequannock watershed, making outdoor recreation a staple of the local lifestyle. Residents often engage in hiking, boating, and trail running, which aligns with the choice of a trail-based route for the Falcon 5K. Jefferson Township prides itself on its "small-town" feel despite its proximity to major urban centers, often mobilizing through school-district events to address social issues. By focusing on mental health awareness, the Falcon 5K addresses a key community priority, fostering a supportive environment that integrates physical wellness with emotional resilience.