Hersey High School Boosters Team up with SALUTE, INC. For Community Virtual 5K Event

With students facing continued restrictions on their activities, members of the Hersey High School Athletic Department saw a unique opportunity to lift spirits and provide the opportunity to bring different parts of the community together.

Working with the Hersey Athletic Boosters, the Athletic Department has announced the first Husky Heroes 5K. Because of COVID-19 concerns, the event will be conducted in a virtual environment this year. The virtual format has enabled organizers to open the event to the entire community.

Fifty percent of the registration fee of $10 will go to the Boosters, while the remainder and any additional donations and proceeds from T-shirt sales will benefit SALUTE, INC., the local nonprofit dedicated to helping military veterans and their families overcome obstacles to care and treatment.

"Naturally, our kids are looking for some normalcy right now and getting involved can provide a nice emotional lift for them," said Jim Miks, coach of the Hersey girls' track team. "We are focusing on a theme of Unity - one school, one community, one country, and using this as an opportunity to help educate them as well."

Registration is now open at https://one.bidpal.net/huskyheroes5k/welcome.

Participants can map out their own 3.1-mile course and walk or run it between Nov. 4 and Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

Everyone is then encouraged to share pictures on social media and tag @HerseyHuskies, @HerseyBoosters and @Salute_Inc with the hashtag #HuskiesForHeroes.

"We are honored to have been selected as a recipient of the donations from all of the runners and walkers who will take part in this event," said Mary Beth Beiersdorf, executive director of SALUTE, INC. "With the cancellation of the Chicago Marathon, our Team SALUTE lost out on the opportunity to run for our cause so we welcome the opportunity to partner with everyone at Hersey."

In addition to the 5K, participants are invited to join a Town Hall event via Zoom at 7 p.m. on Nov. 4. Included will be a discussion with local veterans who will share their experiences with students and others, and establish the importance of community events like the Husky Heroes 5K. Moderating the event will be five-tour combat veteran Eric Peterson, founder of Project Headspace and Timing.

Hersey Head Football Coach Joe Pardun got involved with planning, calling it an opportunity for kids to do something positive.

"This will be a great way to bring people of different backgrounds and experiences together," Pardun said. "Our athletic department has been working with veteran's groups for a number of years and there is always a great connection with veterans and students."

To learn more contact Jim Miks at jim.miks@d214.org.