Registration begins for Veterans Day run

Registration is now open for the 12th Annual West Valley Veterans Day Ceremony and 5K/1-mile walk and run.

The event will take place Tuesday, Nov. 11, at Estrella Mountain Community College, 3000 N. Dysart Road in Avondale. The 1-mile run begins at 9:45 a.m., followed by the 5K at 10 a.m. A Veterans Day ceremony and race placement announcements are scheduled for 11 a.m. at Estrella North Plaza.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the Dr. Ernest Lara–EMCC Veterans Scholarship Fund, which assists student veterans facing financial barriers to higher education.

“It’s important to us to honor our veterans with more than words,” said Dr. Rey Rivera, president of Estrella Mountain Community College. “By hosting this fundraiser 5k event, we’re able to help veterans take the next step in their educational or career pathway.”

College officials said veteran students face an increased risk of poverty and homelessness, and the Post-911 GI Bill® covers only 36 months of education.

“Veterans frequently experience challenges and hardships during the transition from military to civilian life,” said U.S. Army Veteran Nathan Kelley, EMCC’s Veteran Services Department manager. “It is important to be able to provide support when and where it is needed. The proceeds from this event—thanks to these wonderful runners-- give us the flexibility to offer that extra support during potential times of hardship, increasing their chances of success.”

The first 400 registrants will receive a finisher’s medal. Packet pickup is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 5, from 4 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Estrella Mountain Community College. No pets are allowed to participate in the run.

The morning will also include family-friendly activities with Avondale’s police and fire departments.

Visit estrellamountain.edu/vetfunrun for more information and registration details.