Locals are taking a stand against the horrors of child sex trafficking and showed up in force at the Vernal Rescue Run to support Operation Underground Railroad. All involved were amazed when Friday’s event was able to double that and raise $10,000 dollars. “It was the most supported and busiest night we’ve ever had,” shares race founder Jill Boyd. “We had more runners, more volunteers, and more community support than ever before.” Alan White, Commander of the Internet Crimes Against Children unit of the Attorney General’s Office, spoke to the crowd before the race about the importance of teaching kids and youth about internet safety and dangers online. An estimated 300 participants ran or walked the 5K and winners Talon Mortenson, Joseph Tanner, Kyler Bowden, Kenzie Bowden, Heather Reynolds, and Jamie Reeves were medaled by police officers in full uniform. The proceeds will be donated to Operation Underground Railroad, an organization of modern day abolitionists who free children from trafficking around the world. Due to the pandemic, it had been unclear whether or not the 5K would be held this year. The race organizers have been amazed at how the community stepped up to help make it the most successful year yet. To learn more about the cause of Operation Underground Railroad, visit www.OURrescue.org.
