The Be The One race was born out of love, respect, and  a desire to honor the men who shaped my life: my grandfather, Harvey Godfrey and Mr. Dan McInnis. Both served proudly in the United States Army, dedicating their lives to our country. 

My grandfather was an active member of the American Legion Post 382, I hope he is looking down today, proud of his granddaughter - a member of one of the smallest Auxiliary units in the state - using the lessons he taught me to give back to the veteran community. 

My grandfather taught me the value of hard work, showing up no matter what, never quitting, and always providing for the people he loves. He led by example, showing that dedication and care for others are among the highest forms of service. These lessons, alongside Mr. Dan McInnis’s devotion and love, shaped my belief that every life dedicated to serving others deserves to be honored. 

Dan McInnis spent his post-service life battling the effects of Agent Orange, a herbicide used during the Vietnam War, which has been directly linked by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to several types of cancer in Vietnam veterans. In the early summer of 2020, Dan was diagnosed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and given only months to live. Watching someone you love deteriorate in front of you is one of the hardest things you can ever face. Dan passed away in July 2020 - a man who had given his life in service to our country, and whose dedication deserves to be recognized.

Because of these incredible men, I developed a deep passion for serving the veteran community. They taught me the values of hard work, patriotism, devoted service, and loving others wholeheartedly. When I began researching ways to support veterans in my community, I was struck by the alarming statistics surrounding veteran suicide. The men and women who protect us deserve care, support, love, and a community that checks in on them. 

The Be The One Race exists to raise awareness about veteran suicide, to honor those who have served, and to ensure no veteran feels unseen or unsupported. It is a celebration of life, service, and community - an opportunity to give back to those who have given so much.