Growing up I always witnessed my parents paying it forward. There isn’t a moment in my childhood that I cannot recall my parents blessing others. There were times when we’d leave church as a family of five and return home as a family of seven or eight. My peers always wanted to enjoy my mom’s home cooking or listen to my dad tell corny jokes. Witnessing their love and open arms has shaped me into the woman I am today. A woman who opens her doors and her heart to those in need.

Today I’m carrying it forward in honor of my dad, my brother, and the countless men and women in my family that serve this country. Coming from a family where my dad is a retired Major and my brother a medically discharged vet I’ve seen first hand their hard work and dedication. As a family we are grateful that their lives have gone untouched however, many of our cousins have been wounded during their time of service. Most recently I learned about the opportunity to join forces with Wounded Warrior Project to bring awareness and to take part in their virtual 5k race. The Wounded Warrior Project is a charity and veterans service organization that offers a variety of programs, services and events for wounded veterans of the military actions following September 11, 2001 which operates as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Warriors are near and dear to my heart so I couldn’t help but join in.

My Dad & My Hero

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You too can join in and help raise funds towards this non- profit organization helping wounded warriors near and far. You’ll sign up and take part in the virtual 5k run. This is a great opportunity to get kids off their screens and participate in something meaningful. As we gear up for the school year we can encourage our children to honor our warriors. As a family you can talk about making a conscious decision to appreciate the bravery and sacrifice of the military and understand the meaning of service; kids could run/walk with a parent or as a family you could create a relay and pass something that you will carry in honor of a military loved one to the next person. There are so many ways to take part in this life-changing event and pay it forward.

Joining the virtual race allows you to build community and sign up with you city or the virtual team. Below you can see which cities have a link

Carry Forward San Diego

Carry Forward Nashville

Carry Forward Jacksonville

Carry Forward Virtual

I’ll be supporting wounded warriors and their families for the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) Carry Forward 5K in Jacksonville. When our freedom is threatened, the bravest among us step forward to protect us. Often, these servicemen and women return home with visible and invisible wounds. The mission at WWP is to honor and empower wounded warriors. 

I’m asking you to join me in helping put the mission in motion. Take action for injured veterans. Give what you can. Every bit helps transform the way warriors are empowered, employed, and engaged in our communities. Just click the button above and you’re on your way to helping wounded warriors take on their next mission. Thank you in advance for supporting me, and more importantly, supporting lifesaving programs for wounded warriors and their families.

This post is made possible with support from the Wounded Warrior Project. All opinions are my own