Salvation Army Run/Walk Into Summer 5K Tonight

Although it's not a widely known adage, did you know that the family that walks and/or runs together can make a huge difference in their community?

That is a fact, something Majors David and Norma Moore have come to know in the three years they've been at the helm of the Greater Nashua Salvation Army.

On June 6 the community is invited to come together as a way of raising much-needed support for this long-standing community outreach.

"It's a very family-oriented event, and while we hope to get some serious runners this year, it's also a really good opportunity for families or young people to come together for a great time," said Major David Moore.

It's also a chance to learn more about the Salvation Army's year-round mission to provide food, clothing and services to those right here in Nashua going through difficult times.

"Many people know us for what we do around the holidays with the Red Kettle campaign, or back to school and Thanksgiving. This Christmas for example we helped just under 800 families with presents, clothing and food," said Moore. "But many people don't realize we run a food pantry throughout the year."

The Salvation Army also operates an after-school program that serves about 25 students five days a week during the school year, and 42 kids attend summer day camp annually, Camp Rock Solid (registration form uploaded with this story).

That is in addition to the Salvation Army's summer camp in Standish, Maine, Camp Sebago, which is still taking registrations for 2013.

Another thing people sometimes forget is the Christian ministry that is at the core of the Salvation Army's mission. There are Sunday services  and Sunday school classes throughout the year at the Salvation Army home base, at 1 Montgomery Avenue, just off South Main Street, led by the Moores.

But it's the everyday mission of outreach that is so important, said Major David Moore.

"A few days ago we had a young mother come to us. Her baby was only a few weeks old, and she neede formula. She was referred to us by social services, and we were able to take her to our pantry and get her food for herself as well as for her baby," Moore said.

"There are many other agencies we work with in the community in a collaborative way – it's not just for food or clothing; sometimes we partner with other agencies to help those in need of utility assistance, prescriptions or gas cards," Moore said.

The annual Run/Walk Into Summer 5K is a great event because it brings people together in one place – this year Rivier University will be the start and finish line for participants.

"We have a great group of volunteers, and our main sponsor is who work very hard to help us out with the event. Last year I walked and by the time I got back, everyone was waiting for me so we could do the awards," Moore said. "So I am not sure if I'll be walking this year. I don't want to hold things up."

He said this year there will be a celebration at the finish line, including hot dogs, ice cream and other refreshments.

"We're looking forward to this event and trying to build it up. We're also hoping for good weather – and a good turnout – it's on a Thursday night this year instead of Saturday, so we're hoping afterwards people will stick around for refreshments and make it a great celebration," Moore said.

Registration is $25 in advance and $30 on race day.

FREE T-Shirts to the first 100 online registrants!

You can click here for a link to register for this year's 5K Walk/Run Into Summer.