The residents and day program participants of Breckenridge Village of Tyler gathered on the morning of Saturday, March 7th for the Fresh 15 race amid the bustling crowds of runners, supporters, photographers, and Brookshire’s employees. This event is the excitement of the spring season every year, as it is a day full of healthy exercise and fellowship with friends. Since 2017 BVT has participated in the 1K portion of the race. First time participant and new BVT resident Sarah said “Running in the race made me feel so awesome, like a champion! It was my first race ever and I loved it. Brookshire’s treated us really nice!”
As quoted on the Brookshire Grocery Company website “FRESH 15 is not just a race – it’s an experience… this event is quickly becoming a destination race and leading 15K in the United States. Our race focuses on the runner experience, offering the best swag, a safe, spectator-filled course, and an awesome post-race party. 100% of race revenue is donated back to non-profit organizations within our community.”
BVT resident Brian F. was the first across the finish line. When asked about his victory Brian stated “I really enjoyed being in the Fresh 15 race. It was good to be first across the finish line for Breckenridge and to also get a medal for running, just like last year. I had started off a little slow but picked up speed after a few minutes. Congratulations to all the other people from BVT who participated in the race for the third year we’ve been lucky enough to be part of it.”
Participation in events such as the Fresh 15 is one-way people with intellectual or developmental disabilities can feel inspired to dream big and reach for more. The joy on each special person’s face was evident, as they were able to not just be included, but celebrated for their accomplishments.
Parent Pat W. feels that “for several years now, [his] daughter Jennifer has enjoyed participating in the annual FRESH Walk sponsored by Brookshire Grocery Company. As a resident of BVT Jennifer looks forward to community activities and events where persons with disabilities are encouraged and welcomed to be present. Her enthusiasm level is always high, and she gives it her best effort to shine by receiving a medal at the finish line. Thank you BROOKSHIRE’S!!!”
BVT was so thrilled to once again be a proud recipient of the Fresh 15! Brookshire Grocery Co. is a wonderful example to the East Texas community for their philanthropic support of the BVT mission, as well as the many other deserving non-profits in the greater Tyler area. Breckenridge Village of Tyler looks forward to many more fruitful years of Fresh racing to come.