Justin Mayers Promotes Colorado Buffs’ Touching Effort on Mental Health and Suicide Awareness

The Colorado Buffs are gearing up for a special “family event” this Sunday, the annual Buffs4Life 5K Fun Run! 

It’s conducted annually in memory of Kyle McIntosh, a former CU track and field athlete who passed away from cancer a decade ago. Since then, the Buffs have used this marathon to support struggling athletic families in Boulder. Now the Buffaloes’ new O-lineman is using this “annual event” to spread some important awareness.

Offensive lineman Justin Mayers shared the event details on Instagram. “Join us for the 12th Annual Buffs4Life 5K Fun Run this Sunday! Enjoy food, music, games, and great energy—all for a wonderful cause!”

He further explained the goal: “This year, we honor the memory of CU Soccer Alumna Jessica Bergener Ochs & her family. The funds raised will support 529 college funds for her four children. Our focus remains on mental health resources and suicide prevention, ensuring no Buff fights alone. Buffs Helping Buffs!”

This event is slated to take place at Franklin Field on the CU Boulder campus. Sign up for the 5K and you’ll get a T-shirt, medal, and certificate. Now more than a race, it’s about community and raising vital funds. The run/walk costs $25 for individuals and $90 for a family of five. In the past decade, these efforts have raised around $100,000 to support former athletes. This year, however, the focus is mainly on mental health awareness.

This became a key focus for Buffs4Life, especially after two heartbreaking losses in Boulder: a former Buffs linebacker Drew Wahlroos and Heisman Trophy winner RB Rashaan Salaam in 2016.

Looks like the Buffs have been doing many such worthy causes in recent times. 

The Colorado Buffs tackle several community challenges

Now, who is better at promoting the need for mental well-being than a pressured athlete? However, the CU Buffs are tackling more than just “mental health” this June! The CU Buffs football Governor, Camden Dempsey, recently announced several player-led initiatives that are making waves in Boulder.

First up is the “Adopt a Highway program,” where Buffs players will clean up a section of Highway 36, beautifying the area. Next comes a heartwarming partnership with Colorado’s Children’s Hospital. Special teams player Christiano Palazzo will lead this effort, along with other Buffs stars, creating special moments for young patients.

But the Buffs’ commitment to the community extends beyond the hospital. They’re partnering with a “precious child” in North Boulder, focusing on the well-being of underprivileged youth. Now these projects show the Buffs care about more than just mental health. They are all in for a wholesome development in Boulder.