New York, NY (Top40 Charts) Far too often when veterans return home from serving our country, the tolls of war are too great for them to bear alone. War has left some of our bravest service personnel with life-altering injuries, or horrific psychological scars that make it difficult to re-enter civilian life, and many are hesitant to seek the help they need. Moreover, cutbacks to veterans' services from the federal government have put a strain on healthcare, education and job opportunities for veterans. This Saturday, March 14, Nashville and surrounding communities can make a difference in the lives of these veterans through participation in the 7th Annual 650 AM WSM Springer Mountain Farms 5K Run & Walk at the Grand Ole Opry Complex, from which a portion of the proceeds will benefit The
Journey Home Project.
The
Journey Home Project, of which country music star Charlie Daniels is Chairman of the Board, and his long-time manager,
David Corlew a co-founder, connects donors to veterans' organizations that do the most good in helping military members and their families receive good healthcare, have access to education programs and connect with job opportunities that fit their skill sets and financial needs. It exists to assist other not-for-profits in securing funds to help causes that benefit veterans of the United States Armed Forces.
"At 650 AM WSM we are proud and honored to support The
Journey Home Project through a portion of the funds raised at our 7th Annual Springer Mountain Farms 5K Run & Walk. My father was an Army Sergeant who did tours in Korea and Vietnam. For me, this cause is essential and very personal," said Randy Bush, WSM General Manager.
Representatives from The
Journey Home Project will be on-site at the race, and veteran students from Lipscomb University will ride along the 5K route in a jeep wrapped with The
Journey Home Project logo.
"We are very excited about our partnership with WSM and are moved that our community is being so supportive of the common goal, serving those who served us," said
David Corlew.
Register to participate on-site at the Grand Ole Opry Plaza (2804 Opryland Drive) the morning of the race for $35. Registration begins at 6 a.m. and the race kicks off at 7:30 a.m.
Both runners and walkers are welcome. The race will be followed by an awards ceremony at approximately 9:30 a.m.
For more information on the event, visit www.wsmonline.com. For more on The
Journey Home Project, visit www.thejourneyhomeproject.org.