ST. LOUIS — What began two decades ago as a prostate cancer walk has now grown into one of St. Louis’ most inclusive community health events. 

On Saturday, Sept. 13, the 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis will host the 20th annual Community Health Day Walk/Run, shining a spotlight on early detection and prevention while celebrating movement, family, and fun.

The day begins at 7 a.m. with a group warmup, followed by a 1K and 5K walk/run at 8 a.m. at the IKEA parking lot in Midtown. Organizers say the event is open to everyone, regardless of age or fitness level.

“Everyone should participate,” said board member Jeray Perkins. “Whether you’re a senior citizen, a kid, a seasoned runner — you don’t have to be a seasoned runner.”

After the race, the parking lot transforms into a lively health and wellness hub. Free screenings, nutrition and wellness resources, and community vendors will be on hand. Families can enjoy food, giveaways, music from a live DJ, and even a low-impact step slide or line dance class set to the popular “Boots On The Ground .”

For Jeremiah Hathorn, president of the organization, the mission goes deeper than fun and fitness.
“We see high rates of chronic conditions such as heart failure, diabetes, and prostate cancer,” Hathorn said. “So for us, it gives us an opportunity to be in the community to remove non-access to care, and early detection, prevention can really save lives.”

The expansion from a prostate walk to a full health day reflects that vision, aiming to address multiple health disparities that disproportionately impact the African-American community.

Adult registration is $25, and children can participate for free. Proceeds help sustain the group’s health outreach efforts throughout the year.

For more information or to register, visit www.100blackmenstl.com/health-day or follow the group on Facebook at facebook.com/100bmmetrostl