The Sherry’s Run 5K Run/Walk event is one of the largest community events in Lebanon, TN! The 5K run/walk is a fundraiser that benefits Sherry’s Hope, a local nonprofit. Sherry’s Hope assists families who live in Wilson County (TN) and surrounding communities and are seeking treatment or in hospice care due to a current cancer diagnosis. The annual fundraiser event is a communitywide effort as local businesses, churches, and families come together to sponsor, volunteer, and participate in the run. While the event would not be possible without wonderful sponsors and participants, the hearts of volunteers truly make dreams come true at Sherry’s Run. Volunteers are rarely in the spotlight, but they play a huge part in making everything come together.
From hanging green bows, working the silent auction tent, selling Sherry’s Hope retail, collecting registration forms, picking up trash, and so much more — many hands are needed.
A month before the event, volunteers can be seen hanging up green bows around the race course and the city of Lebanon. Even before that, others donate their time to tie the beautiful bows to “paint the town green!” These green bows act as little reminders that the big race day is approaching. And because of willing volunteers, there are not many places you can go in Lebanon without seeing a wave of green!
Sherry’s Run isn’t just for those who want some exercise, there are other exciting aspects of the event that draw interest! You can find volunteers working hard underneath the silent auction tent at all times both leading up to and during the run. However, just like the green bows, the work for this part of the event starts months in advance as the silent auction committee seeks out different businesses that might be willing to donate items. So many local individuals generously give to the cause and provide items for people to bid on. The silent auction has seen a wide variety of items under the tent. From beautiful jewelry, home decor, lawnmowers, power tools, and even a “Men’s Survival Kit” filled with different types of SPAM— the Sherry’s Run Silent Auction is always exciting!
While at Sherry’s Run, visiting the Sherry’s Hope retail tent is a must! There are always fresh new selections of clothing and hats each year! These pieces help spark conversations throughout the year about the organization’s mission. Of course, retail does not sell itself — volunteers help set up, sell the pieces, and organize what is left over.
Runners and walkers alike need to stay hydrated to complete the race! Volunteers can be seen along the course cheering on each individual at water stations and the hospitality tent as participants pass by.
There are so many other little things that one might not consider about putting together a large event like Sherry’s Run. Who will set up signs for directions? Who will gather trash? Who will set out barriers? Who will take registrations, hand out shirts and timing chips, or take team photos? The list goes on and on! Volunteers do so much behind the scenes to make the event possible!
Volunteers are such a large part of what makes the spirit of Sherry’s Run so unique. Many volunteers use vacation days at their everyday jobs to come and work the days leading up to the event. Sherry’s Hope Executive Board Member and Sherry’s Run Race Director, Scott Jasper shares, “The hearts of our volunteers are so special. They all share a common goal: to positively impact families in our community who are affected by cancer. And because of that goal, all hearts are united to get things done each year!” Whether you volunteer, sponsor, or participate in the run, you make a difference! The 21st annual Sherry’s Run 5K Run/Walk will take place on Sept. 14, 2024 at 8 a.m. GN
