The Liberty Run Foundation began with a relay race plotted on a
highway map in 1985. Three teams of seven US Marines collected donations
as they ran a 610-mile course, later known as the Liberty Run Marathon,
that finished at the Statue of Liberty. What was to become the Liberty
Run Foundation dedicated its funds to the restoration project at the
statue. Since then, the foundation has significantly expanded its
services.
One of the organization's primary tasks is the Liberty Run Foundation -- Veteran to Veteran (LRF-V2V) program. In LRF-V2V,
wounded and combat veterans mentor returning warriors who have been
injured and are undergoing difficult recoveries. Since veterans share
many common experiences, participants in V2V receive advice they can
relate to, which improves their chances for a productive return to
civilian life. This includes coaching those who have post-traumatic
stress disorder, depression, homelessness, and other serious issues.
The
foundation reaches out to homeless veterans by providing care packages
in the form of “comfort bags.” In addition to supplying direct aid, this
makes it possible for volunteers to establish relationships with the
vets.
For information on making a donation or serving as a volunteer, please visit the foundation's website at libertyrun.org.
