For Britt Landrum III, supporting mental health has been a lifelong commitment shaped by family and personal conviction.
As CEO of Landrum, Britt’s support of Lakeview Center builds on a connection that stretches back generations. His father, Britt Landrum Jr., has been a long-time Lakeview board member, making the organization a familiar presence throughout Britt’s life.
“Growing up in Pensacola, I’ve known about Lakeview my whole life,” he said. “It’s a staple in the community.”
Today, Britt is helping advocate for mental health in Pensacola through the Landrum 5K benefiting Lakeview Center.
Turning awareness into action
While Landrum has supported many community causes over the years, mental health has become one of Britt’s greatest passions.
“Everybody either struggles or has a close family member that struggles with mental health,” he said. “My focus is to generate awareness and make it less of a stigma. The link between mental and physical health is critical.”
That belief inspired the Landrum 5K, an event designed to encourage movement, promote wellness and support mental health services across Northwest Florida.
“A big step toward improving mental health, no matter what you’re struggling with or what your family members are struggling with, is physical exercise,” he said. “If we can get people moving, that’s a start.”
The power of movement
A lifelong athlete, Britt played multiple sports growing up before becoming an avid triathlete and IRONMAN® competitor. He credits exercise with helping him navigate life’s challenges and maintain perspective through stressful seasons.
“I know from personal experience how much exercise has changed my life,” he said. “When you’re struggling with mental health, you have to get everything on your side.”
During the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Britt leaned even further into endurance training as a positive outlet. That experience reinforced his belief that exercise can be a powerful tool for improving mental well-being.
Still, he understands that simply taking the first step can be difficult.
“If you can get over that hump, exercise is a game changer,” he said.
Encouraging people to seek help
As a business leader, Britt frequently sees the pressures people carry behind the scenes. His message is simple: don’t be afraid to ask for help.
“People need an independent third-party professional to help guide them,” he said. “I know that’s made me a much better version of myself.”
He hopes that by talking openly about mental health and supporting organizations like Lakeview Center, more people will feel empowered to seek the care and support they need.
A race with purpose
Now entering its fourth year, the Landrum 5K continues to bring together local businesses, families and community members in support of mental health care.
“I hope the 5K continues to grow,” Britt said. “It’s a great race for a great cause. We’ve got good organizers, and we make it a fun event for the whole family.”
His support comes back to a belief that mental health touches all of us.
“You never know what somebody’s struggling with,” he said. “If we’re all a little more tolerant and keep mental health at the top of our minds, the world will be a better place.”
Join Britt and Landrum in supporting mental health care across Northwest Florida by participating in the Landrum 5K or making a gift to Lakeview Center today.
