MAY 16, 2026
8AM-12PM
Brought to you by:
Paws For Mental Health is a dog-friendly community walk to bring mental health and animal welfare to the forefront. In 2024, the Presque Isle Rotary Club began planting Hope Gardens throughout Presque Isle area, as part of the Yellow Tulip Project. In 2025, the club hosted our 1st annual Paws For Mental Health 5K, raising nearly $3,000 and used those funds to invest in more Hope Gardens in the community.
Now in 2026, we are moving the event to Riverside Park in Presque Isle and have expanded the event to include a timed 5K walk/run as well as an untimed 1 mile “fun run” (or walk!) Funds raised from this event will be used to to bring speakers to the local schools and help with local efforts to break the stigma of mental illness.
What is the cost to participate?
This event is completely FREE to participate! Register yourself or other members of your group below!
What will the event look like?
This event will bring together movement, mental wellness, and our four-legged cheerleaders. This year, we’re leveling up with a timed 5K, a family-friendly 1-mile walk, and a full morning of fun! Expect food trucks, vendors, games, music, and a short ceremony to celebrate everyone who’s helping us make a difference.
Schedule of Events (subject to change)
8:00AM-8:30AM: Registration for 5K Walkers and Runners
8:30AM: Route Course and Safety Meeting
8:40AM: 5K START
9:00-9:30AM Registration for the 1 mile walk
9:30AM 5K Race Results, 1 Mile Walk Route Review and Safety Meeting
9:45AM: 1 Mile Walk Start
10:00AM- 12:00PM Community Celebration. Check out the food trucks, live music from the Mark Shaw Band, on site vendors, and Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce Craft and Vendor Fair (located inside the Sargent Community Center).
How does this event raise funds?
Participants can raise funds to support the initiatives if they choose by making personal donations or soliciting pledges/sponsorships from their family and friends, but donations are NOT required. Click here to access our online donation form or here to access a printable pledge sheet that can be returned (with all pledged funds) on the day of the event.
Do I have to have a dog to participate?
NO! While participants are invited to bring their four legged companions, this event is open to anyone in our community!
SPONSORED BY:
