Although some people don’t know about the purple building on the corner of Williams and Oconee streets, more are noticing Nuci’s Space and its mission.

“We are still fighting that uphill battle to get that name recognition, which is understandable, because if you’re not in a band or need medical help, you wouldn’t have a reason to know what we are,” Director of Development Will Kiser said.

Nuci’s Space will celebrate its fifth birthday this weekend by holding a 5K race and a party at Nuci’s Space, which is normally used for musicians to practice and seek psychological help.

Linda Phillips founded Nuci’s Space in 1999 to honor her son, Nuci, a former University student and musician who committed suicide in 1996 after battling depression.

Over the years, Nuci’s Space has continued to reach and help more people in more places.

“We sort of lure (people) in with music,” Kiser said. “We don’t want to hammer the mental health stuff in their heads because it’s pretty scary.”

The second annual Space Race 5K will start at the Tate Student Center and continue through campus.

“We wanted to do something to bring a wide variety of people in and get with the University,” Executive Director Bob Sleppy said.

Last year the event raised about $5,000 and included 70 participants, but Sleppy said he hopes to double the number of those involved this year.

Online registration for the race ends tonight, but those interested in participating still can register the morning of the race.

Parking for the event will be available at the Tate Student Center and in the lot near the Psychology-Journalism building on Hooper Street.