Friends and Neighbors in Action (FNA) will hold its 10th annual 5K Race and Fun Walk on Oct. 1 at Thompson Park in Monroe Township, Middlesex County.
Proceeds from this year’s FNA 5K will benefit Rutgers Veterans House at Rutgers University, funding the launch of a service dog program focused on suicide prevention in military veterans who have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), according to a press release.
Through the program, service dogs will be trained by veterans to assist other veterans. The sense of purpose helps the trainers, but there may also be neurobiological benefits for the veterans interacting with an animal, helping them manage the invisible wounds of service, according to the press release.
“The Office of Veteran and Military Programs and Services (OVMPS) at Rutgers University is committed to assisting our student veterans in their transition from combat to classroom,” said Ann Treadaway, director, Office of Veteran and Military Programs and Services, Rutgers University.
“With this in mind, OVMPS takes a holistic approach to programs and services. We understand each veteran’s experience is unique and the challenges they face are, at times, difficult to overcome. We are incredibly excited to partner with Friends and Neighbors in Action this year to offer student veterans an additional resource in the way of a four-legged ‘battle buddy’ through a formal service dog program. Our goal is to give back to those who have given so much,” Treadaway said.
The 2016 race marks the 10h anniversary of the event – since 2006, more than $400,000 has been raised for families supporting a loved one fighting a debilitating illness and related organizations that provide critical programs and services, according to the press release.
Race registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. Oct. 1 in Thompson Park, Forsgate Drive, Monroe Township. The run begins at 9 a.m. The fun walk will begin shortly after the start of the 5K and consist of a 1-mile loop near the lakefront.
Online registration is available at www.supportfna.com. The 5K course is USA Track and Field certified and sanctioned. Individuals or corporations interested in sponsoring the event may learn more at www.supportfna.com or by contacting Rich Lancia at 610-560-0500, ext. 4230.
