Jennifer Hilderbrand is the president of the Hope Foundation which helps veterans and first responders pay for their counseling needs. She is also running the Ruck4Freedom, a 5K, 10K, or half marathon that will be held on November 16th at Horseshoe Park. When you register you will be joining a community of active military, veterans, first responders, and their families and friends to show your gratitude for their sacrifices and incredible work. You also have the option to carry a rucksack of 15 pounds or more in the tradition of the military.
Jennifer was inspired to get involved when her eldest son enlisted in the armed forces, something she knew nothing about and so embarked on immersing herself in the culture and the lingo. She acquainted herself with other families in a bid to join a community. What she discovered was a stark contrast behind the meaning of soldier versus civilian. She listened and learned of the daily sacrifices her son and others were making so that the rest of us could enjoy our freedom and way of life.
As Jennifer grew more aware of the demands on soldiers and their families, she also learned of the battles that continued for many even after coming home from a war zone. This is why it is so important for our servicemen and women to get the help they want and need, regardless of insurance or cost. The Hope Foundation donates money to financially support the counseling services even if they might be out of network or the co-pay is too high.
Similarly, the Ruck4Freedom is a way to bring the community together, highlight our veterans, and give thanks to our hard won freedoms. The registration fee will be donated to the Hope Foundation and Ryan Bader's 'Outdoor Experiences for All', in which for the past five years he has taken disabled veterans into the outdoors for some nature and camaraderie. Ryan said of Jennifer's work, '...she has been gracious enough to split the money between those two organizations. Definitely sign up and come Ruck with us.'
Many of us may feel gratitude for our military but don't exactly know how to express it. Jennifer has made it easy and even fun to be able to show your thanks in a meaningful way. You can register and join the Ruck4Freedom, right up to the morning of the event. You can also donate and help to pay the fee for any military member who participates, you can also become a sponsor, purchase a military sign in someone's name, or even volunteer your time at the event. Better yet, you can spread the word and make everyone in your circle aware of this great cause and the many ways to help.
If you or your family has no experience with the military, Jennifer says you can still stand shoulder to shoulder with our service members and first responders. Jennifer's own son is home after he completed 9 months in Afghanistan and is now a husband and father of two. She wants to see others flourish and get the support they need to re-enter civilian life.
www.ruck4freedom.org
www.hopefoundationgives.org