Join us for The Blue Jean Mile in partnership with ASICS during packet pickup for the Mental Health Matters 5K. Lace up your sneakers, throw on your favorite pair of jeans (yes, jeans), and run a mile to raise awareness for mental health.

No jeans? No problem. All paces are welcome, and the run is free to participate. We’ll be accepting donations on-site to support the Mental Health Matters initiative and its work to break the stigma around mental health struggles in our community.

Why jeans?

This quirky challenge has a powerful origin. In 2017, professional runner Johnny Gregorek ran a mile in blue jeans to honor his late brother Patrick, who lost his life to mental illness. Johnny’s goal was to spark conversations around mental health and raise funds for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). What started as a tribute became a movement—reminding us that support, awareness, and community can come from even the most unexpected places.

Let’s carry that spirit forward here in Charlotte. Come for the mile, stay for the meaning. 💙👖