Depression affects over 18 million people in the United States, each year, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, or socio-economics. And for 20 years, the Hope for Depression Research Foundation has helped people struggling with depression every day. Through educational initiatives, community programs, and support for groundbreaking research, HDRF has worked tirelessly to reduce stigma and improve outcomes for those affected by depression, looking to change the way depression is diagnosed, treated, viewed and researched.
With a mission to change the way depression is diagnosed, treated, viewed and researched, the Foundation holds its 11th annual Race of Hope to Defeat Depression this Sunday, Aug. 2, in Southampton Village. Last year, HDRF welcomed 1,100 participants and raised over $500,000 to fund critical mental health research. Since its inception, the race has raised over $5 million.
Participants come from all over the tri-state area and beyond, including professional and first-time runners, walkers, corporate teams, families, and children to unite as a community and raise awareness in the fight to defeat depression. (Photo credit: Hope for Depression Research Foundation)
“Each year, the Race of Hope brings the Southampton community together to champion mental health awareness and support HDRF’s groundbreaking research into next-generation therapies for depression and anxiety,” says Southampton resident Audrey Gruss, HDRF founding chair and who serves as the race grand marshal.
The race — a 3.1 mile route around Lake Agawam — is set to begin at 8:30 a.m. at the Southampton Cultural Center (25 Pond Lane). Check-in begins at 6:30 a.m., with the opening ceremony beginning at 8. Cost to participate is $50 in advance, $55 day of. To sign up click here.
