In conjunction with the City of Avondale, Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) and the EMCC student Veterans Club hosts a family fun event on Friday, Nov. 11, that kicks off at 8 a.m. and features a 5k fitness challenge run complete with boot camp-style activities throughout the course. Exercises like timed sit-ups and push-ups are mingled with other endeavors like tire flipping. Activities are done at each participant’s own pace, and completion of any portion is voluntary. It’s all in the spirit of fun and charity.
After the run, the celebration continues with Veterans Day ceremonies and a pancake breakfast prepared by EMCC culinary students. The festivities will include performances by EMCC dance students, patriotic displays from area veteran groups, and a formal ceremony that includes speakers from Luke Air Force Base.
Maryhelen Rosales, EMCC’s coordinator of campus & external relations, encourages the community to attend. “It is so much fun for people of all ages.” she said. “We encourage people to bring blankets and lawn chairs for comfortable outdoor seating while enjoying this beneficial event.”
Proceeds from the event will directly benefit the development of The West Valley Center for Military & Veteran Success, a Veteran Success Project initiative. This facility will serve as a one-stop-shop that active duty personnel and veterans can visit to connect with diverse resources available for them and their families, supporting their educational and career goals, and easing the transition from military-to-civilian life.
Cost for breakfast is $5 per person, but is free for veterans and their families with military identification. Breakfast is also included as part of the registration cost for Fitness Fun Run participants. Run registration is $25 for military, veterans, and those that pre-register online through October 26. Event day registration is $35. Register by October 26 to be guaranteed a free event performance t-shirt and swag bag full of giveaways. Visit www.estrellamountain.edu/vetfunrun for more information and to register.
The Estrella Mountain Community College campus is located at 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale, AZ 85392.