Save the Date! September 5, 2026
The CHAS Foundation 5K Walk/Run
Operated by the Tidewater Striders, this is a charity fundraiser event, 2026 marks its 12th year benefiting local initiatives to improve delivery of mental health care in the Hampton Roads area.
The race is a certified fast out and back 5K course and a 1-mile Fun Run that courses through the scenic Harbour View area of Suffolk that runs alongside a golf course and passes several beautiful lakes.
This race is for everyone from elite runners to walkers.
Proceeds from the race will be used by The CHAS Foundation to improve access to local mental health care. Board members will be on site to answer any questions and explain ongoing programs this race supports.
Dr. Mark Lawson’s Story: I have had many challenges in my life as a Naval Officer and physician but my greatest challenge was in trying to help my beautiful daughter cope with mental health issues. I was shocked how difficult it was in Tidewater to receive timely, adequate mental health care even as a member of the medical community. My daughter’s needs progressively escalated with much of the burden of caring for her mental illness falling on the family.
The anxiety and worry was crushing at times as we searched for the resources to help her get better. Even having excellent health insurance was of little help in getting the resources she needed. We lost this beautiful young lady on January 23, 2013 and have dedicated ourselves to the advancement of effective mental health care and improved mental health resources for patients and families in Tidewater. Being an avid runner, I thought putting on a charity race to raise funds for this cause was in order. Out of this personal loss has come The CHAS Foundation 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk. 100% of funds raised will go to supporting The CHAS Foundation and improved mental health care in Hampton Roads.
On October 18th 2015 the CHAS 5k race was born to support the running community and fundraise for The CHAS Foundation’s efforts to improve local mental health care. We are now in our 11th year with management of the race itself being undertaken by Tidewater Striders.
We continue to attract elite runners from across Tidewater looking to break our 5K course records for monetary awards which adds to the fun. We continue to have a loyal and going number of business and personal sponsors powering the fundraising for this organization’s charitable efforts.
