The 2015 Veteran Jam 5k Race Against PTSD has been set for November 28 at the Fletcher Community Park, according to a press release sent out by the organizers. The 5k benefit run will begin at 10 pm, with check-in beginning at 8 a.m. on site.
The race is organized by the Asheville nonprofit Veteran Jam, which seeks to “increase awareness of the sacrifices and struggles of our veterans through community events aimed to foster purposeful and healing relationships,” according to the organization’s website. Veteran Jam was initiated by the family of Cpl. Joshua Alexander McArdle, an Asheville native who lost his personal battle with PTSD in 2013.
“As a concept turned organization started by family of a love one lost, our hearts are near and dear to the overwhelming statistics surrounding conditions such as PTS leading to soldier suicide, as well as the countless struggles our veterans face to re-acclimate to the civilian lifestyle,” say the organizers through their website. “We feel strongly that it is important we advocate for our veterans, as well as the admirable organizations that stand behind them.”
This year’s race is sponsored by Earthfare, REI, Pepsi and several other national and local businesses. In addition to the race, several organizations and local nonprofits will be onsite to share their work in supporting veterans in need of assistance, including Sheep Dog Impact Assistance WNC, Helios Warriors, Veterans Healing Farm and the Patriot Guard Riders, among others.
Registration for the adult 5k is $35; the cost for the youth 5k event is $25. Day-of registration is available onsite, opening at 8 a.m. Prizes will be awarded for the top three male and female runners, in addition to the top three qualifiers in several age categories.
Veterans can register for free online at veteranjam.org using the code “FREE4VETS”. All runners who register before Nov. 14 will receive a free t-shirt for their participation.
For more information on the Veteran Jam 5k Race Against PTSD, to register for the event or to learn more aobut the organization, sponsors and nonprofits helping to support veterans in the Asheville area, visit veteranjam.org.
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