Ryan Brazel and New Lenox Mayor Tim Baldermann shake hands during the Warriors Walk Sponsor Award Ceremony.
We’re thrilled to highlight the impact of the annual Warriors Walk—a community fundraiser dedicated to supporting veterans’ mental health.
The Warriors Walk, held yearly in New Lenox, IL, revolves around a ruck or march, emphasizing that no distance is too small. Launched in 2019 by Ryan Brazel, a 22-year U.S. Navy veteran, in collaboration with Post 9545, the Warriors Walk aims to raise awareness of the tragic reality of 22 veterans and active service members committing suicide daily.
On January 14, 2024, our Donor Relations & Outreach Manager, Renee Rudolph, spoke at the Post 9545 Sponsor Award Ceremony in New Lenox, IL, highlighting the profound impact of this event on veterans and service members served by The Headstrong Project.
Participants pose for a photo during the 4th Annual Warriors Walk.
In 2023, the 4th annual Warriors Walk raised $32,000, bringing the total raised for The Headstrong Project to $86,000 over the past four years. This highlights the community’s ongoing dedication to our mission. The Walk has facilitated over 500 trauma and mental health treatment sessions for veterans, service members, and their families. To put it differently, approximately 200 individuals have embarked on their healing journey through the intake and onboarding process with their clinician. The impact is tangible, showcasing the strides we’ve taken together in supporting the mental health of our heroes.
Save the date for the 5th annual Warriors Walk on September 14, 2024, at the New Lenox Commons, as we continue to raise awareness and support for those who serve our country. For more information, visit the 5th Annual Warriors Walk event page.
