Vernon Hills cops to restatrt 5K benefit run

The Vernon Hills Police Department will host its first 5K race in over 20 years.

The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 34, which is made up of patrol officers, previously organized the Vernon Hills Classic 5K race to benefit local charities. But with the department's growth over the years, Officer Jeff Cielak said everyone within the department wanted to get involved to plan the race. He added park district and village officials also have offered support.

"The event translated from an FOP event to a Vernon Hills event," he said. "So many people wanted to participate in the event beyond patrol men. We want everyone to have an opportunity to participate."

Now known as the Run from the Cops 5K, participants may run or walk the course starting at 8 a.m. July 20 at the Vernon Hills Summer Celebration site at Lakeview and Center.

All money raised will go to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. The fund has helped give financial support to families of U.S. service members killed or severely wounded overseas since 2000.

Supporting this fund continues a commitment by the Vernon Hills Police Department, which has supported veterans efforts the past five years through a program called the Blue Line for the Front Line. Some projects included sending care packages to service members overseas, providing homeless veterans coats in the winter, making annual visits to the veterans hospital in North Chicago, hosting live teleconferencing for families and soldiers and providing returning service members a proper welcome home.

Cielak said police officers often have strong ties to the military, adding several members of their department have served in various branches. It is important to try to lessen their burden and show they are supported and not forgotten.

"The American soldiers put themselves in harm's way. They are the heroes," Cielak said. "We appreciate what they've done."

The cost to join the 5K race is $30 per person if registering in advance and $35 at the race. For information, visit the police department's Web site at www.vhpd.com.