WESTFIELD – Lee Clink is on a mission – to secure as many gym memberships as possible for veterans.
Clink is organizing a 5K Run/Walk on June 25 with proceeds to benefit the nonprofit organization Lift For The 22.
“On average, 22 veterans commit suicide every day due to a flawed transitional system when they return to civilian life,” said Clink. “The main idea of this organization is that giving these free gym memberships to veterans gives them a positive outlet, a way to meet other veterans, and to work through their problems in a positive way.”
Clink noted that Lift For The 22 hopes this new positive outlet “will help keep these veterans from ever thinking about suicide.”
“We are working with local gyms as sponsors, already collecting free one-year memberships,” said Clink.
Ultimately, Clink would like to see a local chapter of the organization based in Westfield.
“A lot of my friends have deployed, and there is always the chance that one of their friends might need services,” said Clink. “I’ve always supported veterans and feel confident about Lift For The 22 since 85 percent of proceeds raised benefits the gym memberships.”
Clink noted that once a veteran receives a membership, they are asked to check in via social media so that others know the system is working.
“This is the same massive social media network that they are connected to for any number of things,” said Clink, adding, “from finding fellow service members, to posting and finding job opportunities, or encouraging words, to physical, mental, and emotional support.”
Clink, who stays active with his business, LC Landscaping and Property Management, as well as taking time for himself in the gym, knows the importance of being active in sports and staying in shape.
“I go to the gym as often as possible,” said Clink. “Putting on head phones and running is a great way to relieve stress.”
These days Clink is on the run – literally – meeting with potential sponsors and creating a committee to ensure a successful first event.
At press time, Expert Fitness has donated 20 full-year memberships and administrative assistance; Southampton Environmental Services has offered five Porta Pottys for the event; Westfield Lodge of Elks has offered its facility and parking lot for the event, as well as planning assistance; Excalibur DJ Services of Holyoke will provide the morning entertainment from 8 to 10:30 a.m., and Trainwreck will play from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. Additionally, Timberline Tree Service and Timber Ridge Tree Service will donate the use of two bucket trucks that will hold the American Flag for the singing of the National Anthem, Club Fitness of West Springfield has signed on to offer gym memberships, and Liptak Carpet Cleaning & Emergency Water Removal has become a sponsor.
“What started off small has begun to be quite the undertaking as Westfield has really shown their support this early on in the process,” said Clink. “Every day I see more and more support from residents that I don’t even know wanting to help advertise by bringing flyers to their work or their gyms.”
Mayor Brian Sullivan and State Rep. John Velis are also supporters of Clink’s endeavor and will be participants in the event.
“The run will be a community event that includes veterans,” said Sullivan, adding, “Westfield is historically supportive of our veterans and I know will get behind the cause.”
Velis echoed those sentiments.
“This event should be well attended because of the cause,” said Velis. “It’s all about helping veterans and the gym memberships will be a positive way for the veterans to channel their energies.”
The run/walk route leaves from the Elks Lodge at 56 Franklin St. just after 10 a.m., travels down Washington Street to Court Street, continues to Western Avenue, turns down Lloyd’s Hill, on to Route 20, and back to the Elks.
An after party will follow with music, along with hot dogs, hamburgers and beverages for purchase, served by Elks volunteers. Event organizers are requesting that pets are not brought to the event.
In addition, Heather White from the Pioneer Valley Coalition for Suicide Prevention will be at the event to answer questions, and literature will be available from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Brian Boldini, Exalted Ruler of the Westfield Elks, noted that assisting in this endeavor is particularly important to their organization.
“The Elks mission in part is to help veterans and support these types of charities,” said Boldini.
Registration fees include a free T-shirt if one registers online before June 18. The cost for non-military is $40, $35 for military, and children 12 and younger, $15. Bib and T-shirt pick-up begins at 8 a.m. next to the start line. Runners and walkers will also be able to register on the morning of the event. Following the race, a 50/50 raffle is planned as well as a general raffle. Businesses interested in donating a raffle prize may contact Clink via the Facebook link or via his email at [email protected] for pick up.
For more information on the event and to register, visit www.forthe22runwalk.redpodium.com/for-the-22-5krunwalk or www.Facebook.com/forthe225k.
Volunteers are also needed for logistical purposes and can email Clink for more details.
“I won’t turn down anyone who can help,” he said, noting that clean up after the race and the after party is especially important.
Clink also acknowledged the Westfield Police Department for their support and noted that the Auxiliary Police will be assisting with directing the run that day.
With Clink’s friends and family supporting him, he is confident that the public will rally to support this event for veterans.
“The run/walk is also a great way for those that aren’t really into running to get out, have a great time and maybe start their own fitness journey,” said Clink.
