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Hero Hike raises money for Veteran Community Initiatives

Tribune-Democrat - 2/17/2019

Feb. 17--For 7.5 miles, women, men, girls and boys will walk, run and bike to help raise money for Veteran Community Initiatives during the Third Annual Cambria County Hero Hike on May 18.

Organizers hope 150 individuals or more will participate in the event, held on Armed Forces Day. "It's really a chance for us to share as a community and celebrate our armed forces," Cambria County Director of Veteran Services Josh Hauser said.

Cambria County Commissioner Mark Wissinger added: "There are service members from our area stationed around the world, and this is just one way to remind ourselves how grateful we are for all of them."

During its first two years, Hero Hike brought a combined $4,000 to VCI, which provides services, such as job search assistance and support to caregivers, to veterans and their families.

"It's all about doing what we can to continually help spread the word about what benefits are available to our veterans in the area," Hauser said.

The hike -- with a 9 a.m. start time -- will take place on the Ghost Town Trail, beginning at 1097 First St. in Nanty Glo and ending at 424 Prave St. in Ebensburg. Individuals who pre-register and donate $15 by May 3 will receive a commemorative T-shirt.

"Donations are encouraged, but never required," Hauser said. "Our goal has always been to bring people together to enjoy a day on the trail and think of those who serve us, around the world, each day."

About 120 individuals have participated during each of the past two years.

"The past few years we've seen people come out, rain or shine, to hike in honor of our military personnel," said Cambria County Commissioner William "B.J." Smith. "It's just a humbling experience to witness."

Dave Sutor is a reporter for The Tribune-Democrat. He can be reached at (814) 532-5056. Follow him on Twitter @Dave_Sutor.

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