Brooke Shields, Grier Henchy, and Audrey Gruss Unite for Mental Health at Teen Race of Hope 2025
Mental health advocacy takes center stage this spring, with Brooke Shields and her 19-year-old daughter Grier Henchy joining forces once again for a meaningful cause. Last year, they stood alongside Audrey Gruss, founder of the Hope for Depression Research Foundation, at the organization’s Annual Teen Race of Hope to Defeat Depression. Now, they’ve been invited back for this year’s event on May 18th, coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Month. So, what makes this gathering so impactful? Let’s explore the event’s purpose, its community spirit, and the powerful voices behind it.
A Call to Action for Mental Health
The 2025 Teen Race of Hope will bring nearly 500 young adults and supporters of all ages to Pier 76 at Hudson River Park at 10 a.m. for a 5k walk/race, fostering unity in the fight against depression. Gruss emphasizes the urgency, stating, “Suicide is the second leading cause of death for kids ages 15 to 19; and almost 4,000 children and teens attempt suicide every day.” Additionally, this event honors the resilience of youth while raising funds to support research and awareness.
Moreover, the race welcomes strollers and dogs, creating an inclusive atmosphere where families can participate together. SoulCycle master instructor Stacey Griffith will serve as the emcee and deejay, adding energy to the occasion. Therefore, the event promises to be both a celebration and a call to action, blending fitness with a critical cause.
Personal Stories Fueling the Movement
Brooke Shields, a longtime depression advocate, brings a deeply personal perspective to the race. She reflects, “I was forced to suffer silently, which is what a majority of people do. That’s where the real human tragedy comes from.” Her partnership with Grier Henchy highlights a generational commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Meanwhile, Gruss’s leadership through the Hope for Depression Research Foundation has raised over $30 million since 2006, underscoring the event’s lasting impact.
For instance, Shields’ openness about her struggles resonates with attendees, encouraging others to seek support. However, the scale of the issue—4,000 daily suicide attempts among teens—remains a sobering reminder of the work ahead. Nevertheless, the presence of Shields, Henchy, and Gruss inspires hope for change.
How to Get Involved
Participation is open to all, with donations set at $17.50 for students and $27.50 for adults. To sign up, visit hopefordepression.org, where you can register and learn more about the foundation’s mission. Furthermore, the event’s accessibility—welcoming strollers and pets—ensures that families and individuals alike can join the movement.
Still, the modest donation fees reflect a commitment to inclusivity, making it easier for younger supporters to contribute. For example, students can participate at a reduced rate, fostering engagement among the very demographic the race aims to help. Ultimately, every step taken on May 18th will support a vital cause.
A Step Toward Awareness and Healing
The Teen Race of Hope 2025 is more than a race—it’s a community rallying for mental health. With Shields, Henchy, and Gruss leading by example, the event promises to raise both funds and awareness. For instance, the gathering at Pier 76 will amplify voices often silenced by depression. Meanwhile, as Mental Health Awareness Month unfolds, this initiative stands out as a beacon of hope.
However, the fight against depression requires ongoing effort beyond a single day. Therefore, the race serves as a starting point, encouraging year-round dialogue and support. So, whether you join in person or support from afar, your involvement can make a difference in the lives of countless teens.