2 running, fun run, and walking events in Mercer, Pennsylvania

The Mercer High School Student Council is hosting a memorial color run (5 kilometers) honoring DJ Graham. Half of all proceeds will be donated to the foundation - The Center for Soul Care. The Center for Soul Care is a faith-based non profit designed to make mental health accessible to those who otherwise cannot afford it. Their current focus (using proceeds from the DJ Graham Memorial Color Run) is developing programs targeting adolescent mental health with prevention in mind. Programs are being created to support young athletes, sporting parents, and coaches- using best practices in performance and exercise physiology, teaching about grit mindset, optimizing physiology, and the role faith plays in personal and emotional resiliency. The Center for Soul Care also provides spiritual direction for those seeking to deepen their faith.

DJ Graham, beloved son of James and Sarah (Knopp) Graham, was a caring and fun individual who was a joy to be around. He was always laughing and bringing a smile to people’s faces. DJ was an avid golfer and competitive fisherman. He also enjoyed baseball and spending time with friends and family. DJ attended Mercer Area Elementary School where he played little league baseball, basketball, and football. DJ began his sixth grade year at Shenango Elementary. He grew up in a Christian home and had a strong relationship with God. DJ attended City Church in New Castle, PA where he volunteered in children's ministry.

This race will be held on April 12, 2026 at 2:00pm at Mercer Area Jr/Sr High School. The course is mostly flat so strollers and people walking are welcome! This is a very family friendly event. Also, sports teams are encouraged to attend and walk/run as a team. When checking in on race day you will be provided with a race t-shirt and bib number. Powdered paint will be tossed at runners during the race.

The race registration fee includes a race t-shirt and finisher ribbon. Medals will be awarded to first male overall and first female overall. Also, best team spirit, and most creative group with be awarded a placque.

There will be race day registration from 7:30 am to 8:30 am. Race starts at 8:30 am sharp.

Cash registration on race day is $45. Online registration on race day is $35.

For the runners that sign up you will get a goodie bag and travel mug !!

This fast downhill 5k course in Mercer, Pennsylvania. has always had some fast times. Come out and run on Memorial Day morning. This is the same race that use to be the "Freedom Fun Run", but we have changed it to honor the late Jason Michaels who was the race director of this event in the past. Jason gave of himself to the Mercer community for years, and this is a great way to honor him!

The race is sponsored by the Mercer Rotary Club.

All the donations this year will go to the Mercer Rotary Club and all the clubs projects in the Mercer community. To Learn more about the Mercer Rotary club, find us on Facebook, @MercerRotaryClub or Rotary International at Rotary.org