wear blue Honored with 2024 Military Community Nonprofit Leadership Award by Hiring Our Heroes

wear blue: run to remember, a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of the American military, has been named the 2024 recipient of the Military Community Nonprofit Leadership Award by Hiring Our Heroes. Presented by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the award recognizes organizations demonstrating exceptional leadership, support, and advocacy for the military community.

In recognizing the importance of wear blue’s impactful work, Eric Eversole, President of Hiring Our Heroes, remarked, “As we head into a season of gratitude for our veterans and military families, I am honored to recognize the dedication and service of these outstanding finalists. Their contributions in support of the military community exemplify the highest standards of commitment to our service members and their families.”

Introducing wear blue as the award recipient, Liz O'Brien, Vice President, Hiring Our Heroes, shared an impassioned message describing wear blue:

“In the face of profound loss, they found a path forward that wasn't only about remembrance but was about movement, about strength, connection, and wellness in each determined step. This organization chose to turn their grief into a rallying cry that unites communities and reminds us of the importance of each and every life, and keeps the memory of our fallen woven into the very fabric of our shared journeys each and every day. Their work resonates deeply because it is not performative, it’s raw and purposeful, and it’s driven by an understanding that to honor is to remember, not just to remember, but to act persistently, tirelessly and always with unwavering resolve. And each time we speak the name of a fallen service member we give life to their legacy ensuring it continues to inspire and guide us forward and in doing so we build a community that stands tall, found by purpose and driven by that spirit to honor them by how we choose to live with purpose and with joy.”

Since its founding, wear blue: run to remember has united service members, veterans, Gold Star and surviving families, and supporters in honoring fallen heroes through community events and purposeful physical activity. From the wear blue Mile to the Gold Star Youth Mentorship Program, wear blue inspires communities to carry forward the legacies of those who served by fostering connection, movement, and remembrance.

In accepting this award, wear blue’s CEO and Co-Founder, Lisa Hallett, reflected on the spirit of the organization. “Choosing to be inspired by life, rather than being broken by tragedy,” said Hallett. “We are deeply honored by this recognition from Hiring Our Heroes and will continue to build a community that stands united in memory and resilience.”

To view the list of finalists, click HERE.