https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/running-for-the-hearts-behind-the-helmets

The Wilmington Professional Firefighters Association, IAFF Local 129, is taking on 13.1 miles for firefighter cardiac health.

Three Wilmington firefighters will run the Parkway Subaru Battleship Half Marathon in full firefighter turnout gear to raise awareness about the cardiovascular demands firefighters face throughout their careers and to raise funds that directly support the health and wellness of our members.

Firefighters can go from rest to intense physical activity in a matter of second, working in extreme heat, carrying heavy equipment, wearing protective gear, and operating under significant physical and mental stress. Cardiovascular health remains one of the most important occupational health concerns facing the fire service.

Our Goal

Local 129 represents 160 members serving the City of Wilmington, and our goal is to provide our members with quality running shoes as a direct investment in cardiovascular fitness, wellness, and physical readiness.

With a quality pair of running shoes averaging approximately $200, every donation makes a tangible impact:

$200 supports 1 firefighter
$1,000 supports 5 firefighters
$2,000 supports 10 firefighters
$5,000 supports 25 firefighters

Our ultimate goal is to raise approximately $32,000, enough to provide quality running footwear for all 160 Local 129 members.

This is about more than completing a half marathon. We’re using 13.1 miles in turnout gear to start a larger conversation about firefighter cardiac health and turn community support into a meaningful investment in the firefighters who serve Wilmington.

13.1 Miles. 160 Firefighters. One Mission.

Running for the Hearts Behind the Helmets

Healthy Firefighters. Stronger Fire Service. Stronger Community.