The Mentoring Matters 5K powered by Best Fitness starts at 10:00 AM, giving you a reasonable window to arrive in Springfield and settle in before the race. Held at Forest Park's Monkey House venue, this August event offers a 1-mile run. Entry fees range from $25 to $40. If travel plans fall through or conditions change, the race provides a virtual participation option, letting you complete your mile on your own schedule and location. Whether you're running in person or remotely, you'll support the race's mentoring mission while getting your workout in.
From the Race Organizer
The Mentoring Matters 5K run/walk hosted by the Follow My Steps nonprofit organization aims to raise awareness for the need for mentorship in under-resourced communities. Follow My Steps is a Springfield Massachusetts-based non-profit organization offering Youth Mentoring, Career & Skill Development, and Financial Resources. YOUTH DISCOUNT APPLIED AT CHECKOUT!!! This year, we are excited to announce the 5th annual Mentoring Matters 5K will be held at Forest Park. Note: Registration takes place at the Monkey House. Park in Cyr Arena Parking lot. Runners and walkers can register as teams or individuals – and have the option to fundraise as a team. Tee Shirt included in registration (limited availability) ABOUT FOLLOW MY STEPS DID YOU KNOW? Young Adults Who Were At-Risk for Falling Off Track but Had a Mentor Are: 55% more likely to enroll in college 130% more likely to hold leadership positions. 78% more likely to volunteer regularly 90% are interested in becoming a mentor Our organization is headed by strong professional who are dedicated to elevating under-resourced students and their families. We understand that there is a disproportionate representation of minorities in key decision-making positions in all facets of leadership in the current time. We aim to close that gap by providing deserving students with the opportunity for financial, mental, and professional education. By offering mentorships to scholarship recipients, we aim to grow a network of like-minded individuals who will continuously give back to their communities and others alike. VIRTUAL 5K OPTION: #MentoringMatters5K #MentoringMatters5K is a virtual, non-competitive race by Follow My Steps that allows participants to choose their preferred distance and activity, such as running, walking, or dancing. It can be completed at any time from now until August 8th, and participants are encouraged to share post-challenge photos with the hashtag #MentoringMatters5K. The $40 registration fee serves as a donation to support resources for youth empowerment, including providing school supplies, financial aid for college-bound students, and hosting skill development workshops. Participants are encouraged to track their activity time and distance using a smartphone or smartwatch
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Springfield, MA. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K powered by Best Fitness 2026 — Springfield, MA
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for August 8.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Springfield, MA.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is 5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K powered by Best Fitness 2026 — Springfield, MA?
5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K powered by Best Fitness 2026 — Springfield, MA takes place on August 8, 2026. The race is held in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Where is 5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K powered by Best Fitness 2026 — Springfield, MA held?
5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K powered by Best Fitness 2026 — Springfield, MA is held at Forest Park(Monkey House) in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Where can I find hotels near 5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K powered by Best Fitness 2026 — Springfield, MA?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Springfield. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
