More than 400 runners came out to support Vets 4 Veterans’ during a fundraiser at the Antelope Valley Mall, where one hundred percent of the proceeds from the inaugural Operation Restart 5K/10K and Mini Patriot Mile run will go towards helping local veterans, as all of the board members are volunteers.
The money is used for utility bills, medical, food and “life expenses,” to help keep veterans from losing their housing and becoming homeless.
“We have a huge need right here in the Antelope Valley and it’s good to be a part of something so important as serving our veterans,” said Donna Aceves, whose daughter, Angela, was running in the Mini Patriot Mile. Coming from a family of veterans, Aceves said it is a small thing the community can do to make a big difference.
“There are a few other teachers running from Summer Wind Elementary School,” said Aceves, “I think it is a good example to show our children to serve and to get together as a community.”
The organization also funds scholarships for veterans attending Antelope Valley College. So far, the organization has awarded over $150,000 to help veterans and is raising money to buy several houses for temporary shelter for a family and two other houses for single men and women.
“I would just like to thank everyone in the community for coming out and supporting Vets 4 Veterans,” said V4V board member, Carol Rice. “The donations and sponsorships we received covered the costs of putting on the event, so all of the proceeds from the registrations go directly to helping the veterans of the Antelope Valley.”
For more information on Vet 4 Veterans or to see what is available to help veterans, visit www.vets4veterans.com.