A MESSAGE FROM Lynn "Sherpa" Westover - MCM50K VETPAW Charity Run
My name is Lynn Westover and I am the Director of Operations for Veterans Empowered to Protect African Wildlife. Since I left active duty in 2012 I have participated in this amazing event every year with the exception of one, and that was due to being deployed. What makes running this race better is the ability to raise money for a cause while running it.
VETPAW's mission is simple; first, we bring veterans together and utilize their hard-earned skills to empower and train African Rangers and Law Enforcement to curb the wildlife poaching epidemic. Second, we train, advise, and assist those Rangers and Police in community engagement and on the ground operations to stop the bleeding at the source.
Last year was the first year VETPAW participated as a Charity Partner with the Marine Corps Marathon. For me, it was the first time that the MCM hosted the 50K Ultra Race, and my first time running one. It was the first time that I was able to talk my wife into running a marathon. And not only was she amazing in running it, but she also did it while 12 weeks pregnant with our first child!!!
Now, this is my first year as a parent, and it will be the first time the MCM has done a virtual race and my first virtual 50K. Yes, I guess I am still crazy so nothing new there.
So, here we are... 2020... This year will be marked by many as one harsh year. It certainly has felt like a marathon. Right now it feels like we are at the wall, we don't have much further to go to put it behind us, but it is far from over.
Aside from a pandemic, political and civil unrest, and tough times had by all, it has been more difficult for non-profits to keep their doors open and their lights on. But it definitely shows the warmth and strength of the human spirit.
Despite all of the difficulties, our veterans have continued their mission on the ground in Africa to protect endangered wildlife. So I must continue my mission to support them. They have been away from their families during these trying times and remained steadfast. I ask you to please join me to support VETPAW in its mission to save African Wildlife. Please donate whatever you can to help us finish our race and end the year stronger than when we started.
I cannot begin to tell you how significant and lasting your donations are to our cause. But, every dollar counts, and every penny matters, please join me in my race to save African Wildlife!
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