In Appalachia we may not have a lot—but what we do have is heart. And when it comes to our kids, our community always shows up.

Here in Johnson County, a few friends and I started the Mountain City Mammoth 5K/10K to raise money for student programs at Johnson County High School and Johnson County Middle School. Our goal is simple: support the enriching but often unsung extracurricular activities that make a real difference in students’ lives—programs like track, golf, robotics, choir, theater, and more.

These programs are an essential part of the fabric of our schools. They help students discover their talents, build confidence, and learn teamwork and perseverance. For many young people, they open doors to college opportunities and lifelong passions.

Some sports like football and basketball can sustain themselves through ticket sales. But many other programs—ones that mean just as much to the students involved—depend on community support to afford equipment, travel, and opportunities.

We are committed to making sure 100% of runner registration fees go directly to these student programs. That means we’re working to cover the event expenses separately so every dollar raised by runners benefits our kids.

To make this event possible, however, we have some upfront costs—city permits, insurance, promotion, printing, and event management. Because we’re first-time organizers, we missed the window for some larger sponsorship opportunities. We are deeply grateful for the sponsors who have stepped up already, but we’re still a little short of what we need to cover the costs.

That’s where you come in.

If you believe in giving kids opportunities to grow, learn, and discover who they can become, please consider donating today. Every contribution—whether it’s $10, $25, $50, or more—helps make this event possible and ensures more resources go directly to the students who need them.

If you’re not able to donate, you can still help by sharing this campaign with friends, family, and neighbors. In a small community, those shares matter more than you might think.

In Appalachia, we take care of our own. Join us in showing our kids just how much this community believes in them. Donate today and help us make the Mountain City Mammoth a success.