Friends and Family,
The Vermont 100… one of America’s oldest 100 mile running races… an elite Grand Slam race, the only race in the country that has a horse race that runs alongside the runners. Yep, the runners run alongside horses for the entirety of the race! The Vermont 100... my next personal challenge, goal, aspiration... My next opportunity to give back to a community that, with your help, can reach many more people than I ever could on my own.
However, before I go any further, let me recognize something first. There is a LOT of need in the world. All you need to do is turn on the TV and you’ll see people in heartbreaking situations that are beyond their control. People who are just trying to live their lives, yet are under oppression far greater than they can overcome by themselves. People who, without some sort of outside assistance, face seemingly insurmountable odds. I am NOT trying to take away from that at all. My heart goes out to everyone in need… everyone. What you are going to read next is where I’m putting my fundraising efforts this year. One of the areas that I hope to make a difference, but not the only one.
If you’re still reading… let’s talk goals and passion… When I think of chasing my goal of finishing a 100 miler, I can’t think of a better one than the VT100. Those who know me well enough, know that I’m very goal oriented. I like to push myself to see what I’m physically and mentally capable of. It’s in these moments, the moments where I’m physically and mentally spent, needing to dig deep to just keep moving forward, I feel most alive, closest to my spirituality, living my best life.
In addition to pushing myself mentally and physically, I believe that giving back and working hard for the benefit of others is equally, if not more, important and fulfilling. That is why I applied to join Team Run 2 Empower when seeking entry into the Vermont 100. Team Run 2 Empower is a fundraising team for Vermont Adaptive. Click the link to check them out. Vermont Adaptive makes many outdoor sports and activities available to those who may never otherwise have a chance to participate. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have relatively few barriers when pursuing my many physically active interests. Vermont Adaptive helps extend that fortune to those that have to fight more headwind when participating in outdoor activities. If I can help enable more people to experience the outdoors the way that I’ve been able to, even just through fundraising, count me in!
Feel free to read below or navigate to their site for more information. If you feel so compelled, please consider making a donation to support their noble efforts. No donation is to small, or too large. Thank you in advance for your consideration!
Jason
MORE INFO:
Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that empowers people of all disabilities through inclusive sports and recreational programming regardless of ability to pay. In addition to sports, year round programming options integrate environmental, holistic wellness, and competitive training philosophies for people of all ages with cognitive, developmental, physical and emotional/behavioral disabilities. The organization believes sports and recreation provide a physical, mental and social experience that is immeasurable in promoting self-confidence and independence in an individual.
With nearly 400 active volunteer instructors, plus generous partners and sponsors, and an amazing base of clients and friends, Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports has been at the forefront of sports and recreation for those with disabilities in New England for over 30 years. Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities. We promote independence and further equality through access and instruction to sports and recreational activities.
The VT 100 is one of Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports biggest fund raisers every year. For more information about Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports: www.vermontadaptive.org.