It has been on our minds since mid-April – “What can we do to show our support to the many first responders in our community who always have our back?” Of course, there are many. One of the ways we can show support is by simply remembering them – helping them take care of themselves after a disaster or just a tough day. When asked how we can support our Pope County first responders with the Scrub Run proceeds, Sheriff Tim Riley immediately had an idea and said, “You don’t run a vehicle for 100,000 miles without getting an oil change. Sometimes you need a tune-up.”
100% of this year’s Scrub Run proceeds will go to Funds For Heroes, a fund to help pay for mental health response for law enforcement, firefighters, ambulance personnel, and their families. The money donated will be designated for Pope County first responders. Through professional counseling and mental health support, safe environments help start the healing process from post-traumatic stress, relationship difficulties, and other concerns a first responder or their family may be dealing with.
In its ninth year, the GRHS 5K Scrub Run/Walk will occur on Saturday, June 10, at City Park in Glenwood. The Scrub Run 5K is for everybody – both competitive runners vying for the winning medal to friends who want to walk and talk. The Scrub Run was inspired by Dr. Mark Johnson in 2015, encouraging groups of friends and families to get active and stay active. Proceeds from previous Scrub Runs went to Glacial Ridge Hospice. Mary Johnson commented, “Giving the proceeds to help our first responders is still honoring Mark (Dr. Johnson). He was the Emergency Medical Director at Glacial Ridge for 25 years. Everyone gets to know each other well; they become like family.”
Registration, T-shirt/Tank Order, Donate
Lastly, let’s mention the Scrub Run shirts. The fabric is soft and wearable, so you will want to wear it again, and you can choose either a T-shirt or a women’s tank top. And this year, there is an imprint on the back of the shirt that reads “First Responders Have Our Back.” The shirts are co-sponsored by Pat and Dan Douvier with ScreenPrints Plus. Register for the Scrub Run by May 29 to ensure you get a t-shirt or women’s tank in the size you want. Any extra shirts are available on a first-come basis.
You can register, order shirts, or donate directly to Funds For Heroes if you cannot attend or want to cheer from the sidelines.
For event details and/or to download a registration form, visit Scrub Run. You can also pick up a form at Glacial Ridge Wellness Center. Contact Joanna Curry at 320.334.5539 if you have any questions.
