Shay's June Spotlight (2025) - wear blue: run to remember

There are countless nonprofits doing vital work in our communities, but every now and then, one stands out—an organization that not only serves, but heals. One that shows up with purpose and creates a lasting impact. Each month, I like to shine a light on a nonprofit whose mission truly resonates, especially those centered on remembrance, connection, and hope.

This month, I’m honored to highlight one that’s deeply meaningful to me: wear blue: run to remember.

A Mission That Speaks to the Heart

I’ve had the privilege of volunteering at several wear blue events here in the Washington, D.C. area. And every time, I’ve seen something truly powerful—people coming together not just to run, but to remember. This organization brings together military families, service members, veterans, and civilians to honor the lives of our fallen and support the families they’ve left behind.

wear blue isn’t just about running. It’s about remembrance. It’s about healing through movement, finding strength in community, and carrying forward the stories of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Where It All Began

The organization was founded in 2010 by Lisa Hallett after the loss of her husband, CPT John Hallett, in Afghanistan. What began as a small group of military spouses using running as a way to process grief has grown into a national movement.

Today, wear blue: run to remember honors the service and sacrifice of American military members through what they call “active remembrance.” It’s about turning grief into purpose—mile by mile, name by name.

What Remembrance Looks Like

At the start of every run, participants gather in a Circle of Remembrance and speak the names of fallen service members aloud. It’s a powerful moment—quiet, emotional, and deeply grounding. Saying a name ensures that their life and sacrifice are never forgotten. It reminds everyone present that remembrance is a shared act of honor.

Mentorship That Changes Lives

One of the organization’s most impactful programs is its Gold Star Youth Mentorship. Children who have lost a parent in service are paired with active-duty military mentors who guide, support, and empower them through consistent connection and shared physical activity.

These relationships do more than build confidence—they create bridges of hope and help young people carry their parent’s legacy forward in meaningful ways.

A Movement That Stretches Nationwide

wear blue hosts remembrance runs across the country, from local weekly meetups to major national events. One of the most moving parts of these races is the wear blue Mile—a portion of the course lined with American flags and photographs of fallen service members.

Running through that space is something I’ll never forget. It’s humbling. It’s quiet. It’s powerful. And it reminds you exactly why you showed up.

Carrying Names With Intention

Every Memorial Day and Veterans Day, wear blue invites thousands to participate in remembrance runs where each person carries the name of a fallen hero. Some know the names personally. Others are assigned someone they’ve never met. But in every case, that name is honored and remembered.

It’s not about speed or finish lines—it’s about meaning, presence, and gratitude.

Why I Support This Work

I’ve seen the impact of wear blue in real time—through the families who come to find healing, the children who grow more confident with each step, and the quiet conversations between strangers that spark new connections. This work is emotional. It’s real. And it’s needed.

There’s something deeply human about moving together in memory of someone else. About making space for grief and community at the same time. That’s the beauty of wear blue—it honors the past while creating hope for the future.

How You Can Get Involved

There are so many meaningful ways to support this mission:

• Join a run – Connect with a local chapter or participate in a remembrance event

• Donate – Help fund mentorship, remembrance programming, and support for Gold Star families

• Volunteer – Offer your time at a local event or behind the scenes

• Say a name – Take part in a national tribute and carry the name of a fallen service member

• Spread the word – Share the mission with friends, family, and your community

You can learn more or get involved by visiting wearblueruntoremember.org.

Let’s Keep Moving in Their Honor

This isn’t just about running. It’s about remembrance. It’s about coming together to honor the fallen, uplift their families, and build a stronger, more connected community.

I’m proud to stand with wear blue: run to remember. And I hope you’ll consider standing with them too.

Let’s keep showing up. Let’s keep remembering. Let’s keep moving—in their honor.