The Joey Run was created in memory of Joey Gootee, a beloved son, brother, family member, and friend whose life was lost to an overdose more than 10 years ago.

Joey’s death forever changed our family. Addiction takes so much. It takes lives, steals time, breaks hearts, and leaves families carrying a loss that never completely goes away. After experiencing that pain firsthand, we knew we wanted to do something that could help keep another individual and another family from experiencing the same thing.

That is why the Joey Run exists.

Each year, we come together not only to remember Joey, but to shine a light into the darkness that so often surrounds addiction. Addiction can carry shame, silence, and stigma, but we believe there is hope. Recovery is possible, lives can be changed, and no one should have to walk that road alone.

Proceeds from the Joey Run support addiction recovery efforts, helping provide hope, resources, and opportunities for individuals working toward a life of recovery.

But the Joey Run is about more than raising money. It’s about bringing our community together. It’s about remembering those we’ve lost, celebrating those who are fighting and those who are living in recovery, supporting the families who love them, and reminding people that there is always hope.

Whether you run, walk, volunteer, sponsor, or simply come out to support the event, you are helping us turn Joey’s story into something that can make a difference for someone else.

Addiction has taken enough. Together, we can shine a light, offer hope, and help change the next family’s story.

Join us for the Joey Run and help us run for recovery, run for hope, and run in memory of Joey.