Submitted by Tami Scott
Hope for Bereaved (HFB) is holding an additional Remembrance Run/Walk for Hope this year, to be held south of Syracuse in Homer. The event is set for Saturday, July 31, at Homer High School’s track and field.
This “extra” race comes at a time when, typically, HFB’s main run/walk would be scheduled; this year it’s being held in October, a couple months after school begins. Race organizer Margie Nye thought it important students be included.
“The past 16 months have been extremely difficult when it comes to honoring our loved ones who have died,” Nye said. “Some wakes and funerals could not even be held. This event allows people to memorialize and honor the people who have died. We can celebrate their life, safely and together.”
Why Homer? A family member, Dick Riley, who died this past winter, was from the small town located in Cortland County, Nye said.
“He was an amazing man and we wanted to do something his family could get involved in,” she said.
If this format proves successful, Nye is encouraged HFB may be able to run with it, traveling to locations north, west, and east of Syracuse, too.
Participants can form a team in memory of a family member, friend, or coworker, and can find details on the organization’s website, HopeForBereaved.com. Many people have individual or team shirts made or wear their person’s favorite color to the event. Alternately, runners and walkers can buy a race shirt for $10 but must register by July 22 to be guaranteed it arrives on time.
Registration for both the 5k run and 3k walk is at 8 a.m. on the day of the event, with the run beginning at 9 a.m. and the walk an hour later at 10 a.m. Cost is $25; T-shirts are purchased separately at $10 each.
About Hope
Hope for Bereaved is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to help individuals and families struggling to cope with the death of a loved one. All proceeds fund HFB’s core services ,which are always free of charge and include one-on-one counseling and monthly support groups, newsletters, and a Helpline (315-475-HOPE). For more information, visit HopeforBereaved.com or call 315-475-4673.
