By Cody Scholz
Dear Supporters,
On May 15, 2023, I set out to conquer running my first marathon with the sole purpose of supporting Gold Star Families by raising money and educating as many people as possible. I want to express my gratitude for your continued support and words of encouragement.
I was able to run the Wausau marathon in 3:20:22. Many people view running a marathon as an individual effort, but I would have never been able to push through the adversity of running 26.2 miles without a wonderful community of support behind me every step of the way.
We were also able to collectively raise $7,000.00 thanks to your generous contributions towards supporting Gold Star Families. All of the funds raised will be donated to Helping Hands for Freedom (HHFF) to support Gold Star Families in Wisconsin.
HHFF is a 501(c)(3) organization with the primary mission of supporting the families and friends of the fallen, wounded and deployed with emergency financial assistance. They focus on improving the lives of the children and their families by keeping them together and in their homes.
With the help of HHFF, your donation will impact the lives of countless Gold Star Families by providing financial assistance for mortgages/rent, utilities, car payments, medical emergencies and emotional support.
Thank you once again for your generous contribution and continued support towards the marathon and raising money for Gold Star Families. Both were finite goals that have been achieved thanks to the collective effort of our community.
However, educating others about Gold Star Families is a goal that never ends. Continuing to spread your knowledge about Gold Star Families to others will motivate them to continue what we started.
Our small impact will be able to compound and change the lives of countless Gold Star Families.