LUCEDALE — A memorial 5K walk and run in Lucedale will raise funds for scholarships and mental health support while honoring the life and legacy of clinical therapist Pamela McDonald on March 7.
The race, organized by the Pamela McDonald Balanced Life Foundation, marks the first anniversary of McDonald’s death and serves as the foundation’s inaugural event. Her daughter, Kristyn Robinson, started the foundation to reflect her mother’s commitment to wellness and community involvement.
“She was passionate about exercise and running and having a balanced lifestyle,” Robinson said.
Proceeds from the event will support Distinguished Young Women of George County and fund scholarships in fitness and self-expression.
“We have provided $1,000 this year to go toward the fitness category as well as the self-expression category,” Robinson said.
Any additional funds raised will go back into the Lucedale community, with the potential to create more scholarships for local high school students.
“Once we see how this fundraiser goes, we’ll be able to see if we have additional dollars available to possibly create another scholarship and work with the local community to assess what individuals might need,” Robinson said.
Though the race began as a memorial, Robinson said she hopes it inspires continued involvement and healthy living.
“I hope that they take away that with her kindness and her community involvement, they will also continue to be involved and support the community or maybe continue to be active, whether it’s a run or walk, just strive for a balanced lifestyle,” Robinson said.
The run begins at 8 a.m., followed by the Distinguished Young Women of George County scholarship awards at 4 p.m.
To sign up for the Pamela McDonald Memorial 5K Run/Walk and 1-Mile Fun Run in downtown Lucedale, visit the event’s registration page.
