STEP UP Members Volunteer at Dog Days 5K

On Saturday, June 14, 2025, STEP UP members alongside program liaison Scott Mullins serviced the Hattiesburg community at the 10th Anniversary Dog Days 5K held at Kamper Park. The fundraiser for Hub City Service Dogs featured a lively, dog-friendly 5K race as well as a 5-mile human-only course. At the conclusion of the race, the event drew quite the crowd to enjoy the live entertainment, food, always popular dog pageant, and awards ceremony.

The STEP UP team helped run a water station and dog cooling pools to keep both runners and their four-legged companions refreshed in the summer heat. After the race and celebration wrapped up, the group also pitched in with event cleanup. Their participation was coordinated through Dog Days Event Director Pamela Castle, highlighting STEP UP’s ongoing commitment to service and inclusion in local events.

STEP UP to Leadership Advisory Council is composed of youth and young adults with and without disabilities. Council members serve as leaders within their schools, colleges/universities, and community. The Council focuses on issues facing all young people including leadership, self-advocacy, transition, health care, education, employment, and recreation. Members participate in weekly recreational events, special outings, community service events.

For more information on STEP UP, including how to join, contact Scott Mullins at Scott.Mullins@usm.edu.