The SpeakUp 5k isn’t just a race, it’s a tribute to Cameron K. Gallagher’s vision of creating a community where teens feel seen, supported and never alone in their mental health journeys.
Cameron, a Richmond teen who courageously battled anxiety and depression, dreamed of hosting a 5k in her neighborhood filled with joy and positivity. After she tragically passed away from an undiagnosed heart condition in 2014, her parents, Grace and David Gallagher, discovered her detailed plans — including the now-iconic “fun zones” and “Quote Alley” filled with her sketches and inspiring words.
In her honor, they launched the Cameron K. Gallagher Foundation and brought her vision to life.
Now in its 12th year, the SpeakUp 5k has become one of Richmond’s most spirited mental health celebrations. The race has raised over $2.4 million and reached more than 26,000 individuals across all 50 states. Held each September in Byrd Park, it draws around 2,500 participants including volunteers, walkers and runners. A virtual race option also allows supporters to join from anywhere in the world.
Carrying Cameron’s Dream Forward
Tara Lantz, who recently stepped into the role of executive director, began her journey at CKG in 2020 as director of race operations. She’s committed to ensuring every teen knows someone is in their corner, drawn to the organization by Cameron’s powerful message: “You are not alone.”
Today, Lantz leads a small, but mighty, team dedicated to expanding Cameron’s vision. Her goals include increasing CKG’s presence in local schools, building partnerships with like-minded nonprofits and, most importantly, reaching teens before they’re in crisis.
“We want teens to have CKG in their back pocket, whether it’s for themselves or a friend, so they know where to turn for support,” Lantz said.
Her current focus is delivering a successful SpeakUp 5k on September 6, the foundation’s largest annual fundraiser and powerful community tradition.
More Than a Race
From rave zones to silly string stations, the SpeakUp 5k reflects Cameron’s vibrant spirit and commitment to breaking the stigma around mental health.
“You can feel her energy in the park,” Lantz said. “For us, it’s incredibly important to carry on her dream.”
Two moments stand out to Lantz each year: when Cameron’s parents address the crowd from a forklift above the park and the emotional finish line, where participants raise their hands in celebration, solidarity and strength.
Whether you’re walking in memory of someone, supporting a friend or simply joining for the cause, the 5k has become a moving experience for school teams, families, corporate groups and communities alike.
The Foundation Evolves
When Lantz joined CKG during the height of COVID-19, the team quickly pivoted to meet teens where they were — online. They launched free digital mental health toolkits, accessed by more than 4,200 users nationwide. This year, those resources were redesigned with plans to add new courses covering a range of wellness topics.
To complement the digital tools, the foundation also distributed 2,705 mental health journals to local schools in 2024. These journals provide teens with a creative, low-pressure way to learn about anxiety and stress.
Cameron’s impact continues to grow. Speak Up Clubs in high schools offer safe, peer-led spaces for teens to talk openly about mental health. For Lantz, visiting these clubs is one of the most meaningful parts of her work.
“Whether a student is quietly engaged or leading the group, I always leave those meetings feeling hopeful and inspired,” Lantz said. “There are so many teens out there who want to make a difference — and they’re speaking up.”
Register for the SpeakUp 5k today and join Cameron’s mission to end the stigma surrounding teenage mental health.
