WESTFIELD – Lee Clink is on a mission – to help veterans. Clink is organizing a 5K Run/Walk on June 25 with proceeds to benefit the nonprofit organizations Lift For The 22 and Friends of the Springfield Veterans Center.
“On average, 22 veterans commit suicide every day due to a flawed transitional system when they return to civilian life,” said Clink.
The inaugural 5k Run/Walk last year was to generate funds to provide veterans with gym memberships. This allowed veterans a positive outlet to meet other veterans along with the ability to work through their problems in a positive way, all in an effort to help keep any veteran from ever thinking about suicide.
“We had great success raising money for this cause and on top of that we were able to secure 66 gym memberships for local veterans, ” said Clink.
This year the funds raised will go to the local Springfield Veterans Service Center, which has a wealth of services for current and former service members, as well as the bigger Lift For The 22 organization.
Ultimately, Clink would like to see a local chapter of the Lift For The 22 organization based in Westfield. “I’ve always supported veterans and feel confident about Lift For The 22,” he said.
Clink knows the importance of being active in sports and staying in shape.
“Putting on head phones and running is a great way to relieve stress,” said Clink.
“What started off small has begun to be quite the undertaking as Westfield has really shown their support,” 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.”
The day long event will be held at the Elks Lodge at 56 Franklin St. beginning at 9am.
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.
Registration fees include a free T-shirt if one registers online early: $40 non military, $30 military, children 10-15 $20.00 and children 10 and under free (no t-shirt). 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 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 Https://forthe22runwalk.redpodium.com/westfield-veterans-5k 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.
