Rain or Shine, We Walked! VA2K!
The Battle Creek VA Medical Center held its 12th Annual VA2K Walk and Roll last Wednesday to dedicate to supporting homeless Veterans while also encouraging healthy activity.
The Battle Creek VA Medical Center held its 12th Annual VA2K Walk and Roll last Wednesday to dedicate to supporting homeless Veterans while also encouraging healthy activity. VA employees, Veterans, and other community members joined together to collect donated items and promote health and exercise. The event was free and open to the general public.
This year’s event included a walk with Executive Leadership that took a lap around campus. The weather was moderately cooperative with little rain.
The BCVAMC’s event is just one of approximately 200 VA2K events taking place at VA facilities across the country. While not required to participate, a donation provided an excellent opportunity to support VA and its initiative to end homelessness among Veterans.
"The 2K provides constant awareness for what our Homeless Veterans need that most," said Todd Greenman, Chief of Community and Volunteer Services. “Especially with turbulent times, Veterans need the most common items such as toiletries, clothing, and hygiene items”
And it is true, prices of everything have gone up, making many common daily items out of reach for many. Soaps, hygiene, basic clothing, socks, and many daily household items are becoming a stretch for most. Supply-chain issues and the rising cost of living have become unbearable for many Americans, including our Veterans.
In total, over 70 Veterans and Staff members showed out during a rain shower to walk the lap. 1.24 miles were walked, constituting the 2K requirement. While others extended their walk, those that fulfilled the lap got to enjoy words and expressions by leadership.
"I wanted to thank all of you who were able to come out and help today," said Ann Greiner, Kinesiotherapist, and organizer of the local 2K event. "You were amazing and I really appreciate you being willing to step up and help!
Additionally, over $3500 worth of donations and monies was collected and given directly to the Homeless Veterans program and will stay locally to assist Veterans in the greater West Michigan areas.
Thank you all for making this program and event a big success!