Local Veteran runs 31 miles to support Homeless Veterans

TUSCOLA, Ill. (WAND)- Heading off to the races to benefit the Homeless Veterans in America Relief Foundation, Zach Kibler a US Navy Veteran from Tuscola is lacing up his running shoes to complete a 50k. Kibler is hoping to bring awareness to servicemembers and help those in need.

"I'm 25, all I'm trying to do is bring some good to the world and hopefully someone will run a 51k raise $16,000. I hope they beat me out, but hopefully inspire someone else to do good and do what they believe in."

He also hopes that by running these 31 miles he will be able to encourage other members of the community to give back. After serving five years as a culinary specialist in Norfolk Virginia, Kibler saw firsthand the need for resources for veterans.

"Some people out there just got dealt a bad hand and it just built up built up and built up and they just need that one light at the end of the tunnel."

Micheal Pedroza is the President of the Homeless Veterans in America Relief Foundation and has his boots on the ground to reach the veterans who need help the most. Working closely with veterans and their families to find available resources.

"He meets with the vet or goes out on the streets, meets with veterans and brings in the available resources."

At the end of the day, Kibler hopes that he will be able to make an impact on those who have served.

"I think it brings so much positivity in this world that is so negative. There are so many negative things out there so I will always give back."

After just four weeks Kibler has raised $8,300, but he is still hard at work fundraising. The race will take place August 17th in Waynesville Missouri. If you are interested in donating, you can check out the GoFundMe page to support Kibler in the race while giving back to the Homeless Veterans in America Relief Foundation.