Jacksonville’s “Freed to Run Challenge” Raises $165,000 for Elder Housing Legal Services

Jacksonville Raises Funds for Elder Housing Services

Jacksonville, Fla. – On Sunday, the “Freed to Run Challenge” concluded, bringing together judges, lawyers, and community figures to raise funds aimed at supporting housing-related legal services for seniors in Northeast Florida.

Who Organized the Challenge?

The initiative was led by Mike Freed, who previously organized similar events focused on pediatric healthcare. His latest effort benefited Jacksonville Area Legal Aid’s Shelter for Elders endowment, an organization dedicated to providing essential legal services to senior citizens facing housing issues.

What Happened During the Event?

The challenge kicked off on Saturday with a variety of running and walking events, including 24-hour and 12-hour races at the Duval County Courthouse. On Sunday, participants took part in a 5K run and a bike ride, which spanned from the St. Johns County Courthouse to the Duval County Courthouse. As the event neared its conclusion, it showcased a strong community spirit in support of a significant cause.

Why Is This Initiative Important?

According to Freed, the shift in focus to supporting the senior community came after consultations with Jacksonville Area Legal Aid. They identified a pressing need for assistance among local seniors, prompting the goal of raising $2.25 million to meet housing-related legal service needs. This year, Freed and his team aimed to raise $180,000 during the challenge.

How Successful Was the Fundraiser?

As the 5K event commenced, organizers reported that the challenge had already raised $165,000, indicating a robust commitment from the community towards reaching their target. Freed expressed gratitude, stating, “The thing I love so much about this and the way we do it is there’s so much divisiveness in our country right now in our community, and this is a great thing that everybody can be on board, nobody can be against.”

Community Involvement

The atmosphere surrounding the event highlighted community engagement and collaboration. Participants included local leaders and concerned citizens who collectively recognized the importance of offering legal aid to seniors. This initiative not only aimed to gather funds but also sought to strengthen community ties through a shared objective.

What’s Next?

With significant funds already raised, the focus will shift to mobilizing support and donations to help achieve the final fundraising goal. The Freed to Run Challenge has proven to be a powerful reminder of the difference the community can make when they come together for a common good.

As Jacksonville continues to grow, initiatives like this play a crucial role in addressing specific community needs, ensuring that seniors receive the legal assistance they deserve.