SALUTE to Service 5K Run/1 Mile Walk to Include Special Division for Dogs

SALUTE, INC recently announced that they will host their 19th annual Memorial Day Weekend run and walk on May 28 in Arlington Heights. Funds raised by this long-standing event provide everyday essentials to military families, offering assistance with housing costs, utility bills, car expenses and food. With the help of some sponsors this year, the Salute to Service Run and Walk will also welcome dogs on the 1-mile walk.

"Last year we met Wyatt Nelson, a local teen with a great spirit, who despite having Down Syndrome started his own business," said SALUTE, INC Executive Director Mary Beth Beiersdorf. "We are pleased to welcome Wyatt's Dog Company as a sponsor to this year's race."

Wyatt's Dog Company bakes dog treats in the shape of a bone, using high-quality (human grade) ingredients.

"We learned very quickly that dogs love them and they sell out fast," Beiersdorf said. "Wyatt turns profits over to select charities. Fortunately for us, SALUTE, INC. has been chosen as a charity partner and receives donations from the sale of his Patriot Bones."

All dogs and their owners are welcome to register for the event that kicks off at 8:00 a.m. at Recreation Park. All participants receive a t-shirt and goodie bag. Those entering the 1 Mile "Walk with your Dog" division will receive a special doggie goodie bag, including a bandana made from t-shirts leftover from previous SALUTE runs. Beiersdorf noted the importance of service dogs to many veterans who are healing from PTSD, and various physical and emotional wounds. Many times, the dog will need to be temporarily placed in boarding while a veteran enters a treatment program and SALUTE assists with covering those boarding costs.

"Whether it is a dedicated service animal or just a lovable family pet, we look forward to seeing lots of four-legged friends as we bring back this annual event after a two-year hiatus. Adding this new element really adds a little fun to our race."

In addition to Wyatt's Dog Company, the race will be sponsored by Guarantee Trust Life, Picket Fence Realty, Jackson National Life, K2 Systems, Pregis, Glueckert Funeral Home, Consumers Credit Union, State Farm Insurance-Jennifer Burnidge Agency, and Dogtopia/Arlington Heights.

Registration is now open at www.saluteinc.org/events/salute-5k-1mi.

To learn more about SALUTE, INC., visit www.saluteinc.org.