Dad Strong 5K Launches as a Movement for Men’s Health
Michiana Is Being Called to Show Up for Its Fathers
Dad Strong 5K Launches as a Movement for Men’s Health, Families, and Community Strength
Present Pillars Foundation is calling on businesses, churches, families, and communities across Michigan to show up for fathers through the launch of the Dad Strong 5K Walk/Run, a growing movement centered on men’s health and family stability.
This is not just a 5K. It is a call to action.
The Dad Strong 5K brings together corporate teams, church groups, families, and individuals who believe that when fathers are supported, entire communities become stronger. Participants can run, walk, push strollers, or participate virtually from anywhere.
Running is not the goal. Showing up is.
“I’m running for my dad. I’m running for my brothers. I’m running for my son. I’m running for my friends,” said James Gunter, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Present Pillars Foundation. “And I’m inviting everyone to show up for the men in their lives. If you can be there, run with us. If you can’t, then run with us virtually. Just don’t sit this one out.”
Across the United States, men are facing a growing health crisis. Men account for nearly 80 percent of suicide deaths, are less likely to seek preventive care, and often carry the weight of providing for families without the support systems they need.
In communities like Benton Harbor, the urgency is even greater. Recent Community Health Needs Assessments have identified a 19-year mortality gap, meaning some residents are expected to live nearly two decades less than others depending on where they live and the barriers they face. That gap reflects more than health. It reflects access, stress, opportunity, and systems that have left too many men behind.
For many fathers, the pressure is silent but constant. Dad Strong is a response to that reality.
“Too many men are carrying weight that nobody sees,” Gunter said. “This run is about letting them know they’re not carrying it alone.”
Dad Strong is not just for runners. It is for the dad getting back on track, the man taking his first step toward better health, the family walking together, and the friend showing support. Whether you run, walk, or take it one step at a time, you belong here.
“I don’t care how fast you go,” Gunter said. “This isn’t about pace, it’s about presence. Every step matters.”
Present Pillars is actively inviting corporations, churches, and community organizations to take part by sponsoring the event, registering teams, and showing visible support for fathers and men’s health. This is an opportunity to invest in stronger families, healthier communities, and a more supported workforce.
“This is about showing up,” Gunter said. “Show up for your team. Show up for your church. Show up for your family. Show up for the men who have been showing up for everyone else.”
At the center of Dad Strong is a simple question: Who are you showing up for? Your dad. Your husband. Your brother. Your son. Your friend. Or maybe yourself. Participants are also encouraged to honor fathers serving in the military, including those currently deployed, recognizing the men who continue to show up for their families from afar.
With a virtual participation option, Dad Strong is expanding beyond Benton Harbor, inviting individuals and teams anywhere to take part. Communities, workplaces, and families are encouraged to organize their own participation, helping turn Dad Strong into a movement for fathers and men’s health everywhere.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations that want to align with a growing movement focused on men’s physical and mental health, family stability and father involvement, and workforce and community well-being. Sponsors will be recognized as leaders investing in stronger families and healthier communities.
Registration is now open for individuals, teams, and virtual participants. Businesses, churches, and community organizations are encouraged to secure sponsorships and register teams early.
Present Pillars Foundation empowers fathers and father figures to navigate their barriers so that they become the dads of their dreams. Through programming focused on mental health, physical wellness, financial stability, workforce development, and community support, Present Pillars is building stronger fathers, stronger families, and stronger communities.
You don’t have to be a dad to participate. You just have to believe in one.
WHO ARE YOU RUNNING FOR?
