The 10th Annual George E. Wahlen Veterans Home 5K and 10K runs, 1-mile walk, and chili cook-off will be held Saturday, Oct. 14.
Co-sponsored by the George E. Wahlen Veterans Home and the First United Methodist Church of Marriott-Slaterville, this event is a fundraiser to support George E. Wahlen Veterans Home residents.
The runs and walk start at the George E. Wahlen Veterans Home (1102 N 1200 W in Ogden) at 10 a.m. near the clock tower, go through Business Depot Ogden, and end at the First United Methodist Church, located at 1339 W 400 N in Marriott-Slaterville. The chili cook-off begins at 11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church.
Awards will be presented to the top male and female runners for the 10K and the 5K, as well as for each age group male and female. Chili cookers are also presented awards for their participation and fundraising. There will also be random prize drawings and a silent auction for all registered runners and walkers.
To date, approximately $42,000 has been donated to the veterans’ home from this event. Under the guidance of the George E. Wahlen Veterans Home activities director, these funds allow residents to enjoy many recreation services, which include trips to the Utah Natural History Museum, local restaurants, and aquarium in Salt Lake City. Funds also allow residents to attend movies and plays, go fishing, and participate in other activities. These activities do wonders for the residents’ morale and give meaning and memories to their lives.
Funding from donations provides the vast majority of dollars to support the recreation activities program. Donated funds support the residents and are not used for any other purpose. Without these donated funds, activities such as those mentioned would be greatly reduced.
This year, ‘Destate,’ the eagle from the Ogden Nature Center, will be featured. Additionally, the Utah Military Academy band and singers will perform and the American Red Cross will have a bloodmobile available. For younger children, a bounce house and playground will be available, as well as an activities trailer from the United States Army. Lastly, if you look carefully, you just may see several storm troopers from Star Wars. As you can see, there is a lot planned for this event, so bring the family and enjoy some chili and the planned activities.
Support for our military veterans through these events is greatly appreciated. It is a way to give back to those who have given so much for our country.
Please check these websites regarding fees and other information: VeteransTributeRun.weebly.com or www.fumcogdenut.org. You may also call the First United Methodist Church at 801-393-5662.
