Whitman Elementary School Hosts Fall Fun Run to Benefit Paws Healing Heroes Veterans Organization

For Immediate Release
November 6, 2024

Whitman third-graders listen to Paws Healing Heroes founder Mark Eberle (center) talk about his organization alongside his dog, Bear, and fellow veteran Jay Lapp and his dog, Kimba.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP – Students at Whitman Elementary School had a chance to get healthy, raise funds for an amazing cause, and hang out with some new, furry friends on Wednesday, November 6, 2024. Whitman School hosted a Veterans Day Celebration Fall Fun Run, which included special guests from the Paws Healing Heroes organization.

Each grade level took turns venturing to the Whitman playground, where they met with Paws Healing Heroes founder Mark Eberle and his dog, Bear, along with fellow veteran Jay Lapp and his dog, Kimba. Eberle, a 16-year veteran in the U.S. Army, explained what Paws Healing Heroes is all about before the students were set loose to do laps around the school field for the Fun Run. Students and their families were invited to make donations prior to the event, and physical education teacher Adam Clark had some fun prizes for those who took part.

Paws Healing Heroes started a little over eight years ago with Eberle using community events to raise money to purchase service dogs for military veterans. Many of the dogs are found in rescue shelters and are put through a training program before getting certified to live with a veteran.

“The training program enables them to be certified to work with veterans depending on the needs they have,” Eberle said. “Knowing that I’m able to help and give back to fellow veterans helps me as much as the dog and the veteran in need.”

Costs to adopt and train the dogs can range from $4,000 to $11,000, depending on the training, which can take up to six months. In the 8.5 years since its inception, Paws Healing Heroes has provided 121 dogs to veterans. The cause was a perfect way to bring together the Whitman community.

“We get to honor our veterans, help out a great organization, and get a little exercise while we’re at it,” Clark said. “It’s a win on all levels.”

Paws Healing Heroes is always accepting donations. Check out their website at this link for more information.

Bear took a seat in the crowd of students during Eberle’s presentation.

Third-grader Tina Marzano leads the way as the Whitman students take part in the Fall Fun Run.

Third-graders Isla Welsh and Nor'Reaya Collins pet Bear during a break in their run.

- WTPS -