Lilly’s Lope for Hope returns to Philomath City Park on Saturday for its 13th year to bring together runners, walkers and families to raise awareness of youth suicide and money for prevention efforts in Benton County.
The timed 5-kilometer event starts at 10 a.m. on a course that begins at the park and follows surrounding streets. Check-in and race-day registration open at 9 a.m.
The event also includes a resource fair with local agencies that work with youth and teens, along with a fundraising raffle — both running from 9-11 a.m. The raffle features four prizes, each valued at more than $100, with winners announced after the race.
Participants of all ages are welcome, including those pushing strollers or using wheelchairs. Children under 3 participate at no cost.
The event was established in memory of Lilly Stagner, a Philomath High School student who died by suicide in 2013. Money raised pays for mental health counseling and suicide prevention education for young people in Benton County.
“Lilly’s Lope gives our community a chance to come together, talk openly about youth mental health and show young people that they are not alone,” Bettina Schempf, executive director of Old Mill Center for Children and Families, said in a press release. “Every step helps support access to mental health services and suicide prevention education for local youth.”
Old Mill Center has organized the event since 2023. The Corvallis-based nonprofit, founded in 1977, operates seven programs that address the social, emotional, physical and mental health needs of families in Benton and Linn counties.
Online registration, along with volunteer and sponsorship information, is available on the event’s webpage.