In 2008, the VHPD sponsored its first 5K race in almost 20 years.  The Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge #34 previously held the Vernon Hills Classic 5K race to benefit various local charities.  The new and improved version certainly follows its predecessor's lead.

Now known as the 'Run From the Cops' 5K, participants can either run or walk a scenic course starting at the Vernon Hills Summer Celebration site and extending up and through the Gregg's Landing subdivision before ending back at the festival grounds.

100% of the money raised from this event each year will go directly to charity.  In 2008, we raised $8,000 for the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, which has helped to financially support families of US service members killed or severely wounded overseas since 2000. 

Our 2009 and 2010 races benefited the Sentinels of Freedom, who provide four year "life scholarships" to help injured US Service Members become self-sufficient after returning home.  This year, $12,000 was raised in our third 5K! Next year's race will again benefit the Sentinels and we're hoping to raise even more money for this worthwhile charity.

The VHPD has supported its own Veterans efforts over the past five years in a program known as the Blue Line For The Front Line.  Some of the projects have included collecting items and sending care packages for service members overseas, providing homeless Veterans coats in the winter, annual visits to the Veteran's Hospital in North Chicago to spread holiday cheer, hosting live teleconferencing for families and soldiers, and providing returning service members a proper welcome home, just to name a few.

If you would like more information about "Run From the Cops," please send an e-mail to Race Coordinator Officer Jeff Cielak.

To recap the 2010 race, click here.