Only 37+ days until Fun Run 12 which will take place on Saturday September 5th. Runners and walkers come from across the region to participate in this sanctioned race which brings together serious runners, pleasure walkers and people who want to make a difference in our community. The Fun Run is all about raising funds for the many charities that make life in Red Lodge and surrounding area a better place to live. In 2014 a record was set when $241,000 was raised to support 66 charities and funds, the challenge for 2015 is clear. Throughout the summer we’ll be highlighting the different nonprofits participating in the Fun Run. To help support all of the participating charities consider giving to the “Sally Martin Match Fund.”
This year there have been sad headlines about American service men and women being killed and wounded in places around the world. Serving those who have served is one of the things that make this country great. We do not forget those who have sacrificed to make all of us safer. Four of the groups participating in Fun Run 2015 serve veterans in many different way.
The American Legion promotes patriotism in the community and in our schools in particular. They honor veterans living and deceased. The American Legion is raising money to provide transportation for veterans to VA hospitals and medical facilities.
The Beartooth Elks Lodge 534 serves veterans particularly those in need by serving as a center where veterans events are held and a place where veterans can gather and find help when needed. The Elks honor veterans regularly with dinners and other events.
Operation Second Chance serves wounded, injured and ill combat veterans, by supporting veterans and their families while they recover in military hospitals, and dedicated to promoting public awareness of our armed forces. Funds collected through the Fun Run are used in support of the Wounded Warrior retreat program. All funds are expended in the Red Lodge community to bring Wounded Warriors and families to recover and relax in our great community.
Veterans of Foreign Wars, Granite Peak Post 4725 supports fraternal, patriotic, charitable and educational programs which perpetuate the memory and history of our veterans who have died and to assist their widows and orphans. With donations through the Fun Run the VFW raised enough to purchase a DAV van which is used to transport veterans to VA medical facilities.
Honoring and serving those who have served is a hallmark of Red Lodge and these organizations represent the very best in our community. Consider supporting their important work through Fun Run 2015. For more information about these and other organizations or to register for the Fun Run, contact the Red Lodge Area Community Foundation at 406 446-2820 or visit the web site www.redlodgefunrun.org.