They served for us. We march for them.
That simple but powerful statement is the heartbeat behind 50 Mile March, a Nebraska-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Veterans facing mental health challenges and homelessness. What began as a bold endurance event has grown into a life-changing movement, bringing together marchers, volunteers, donors, sponsors, and Veterans in a shared mission of hope, healing, and relentless support.
Each year, nearly 200 participants take on the physical and mental challenge of walking 50 miles from Lincoln to Omaha, symbolizing the long and often unseen journey many Veterans face after service. But the impact of this march extends far beyond those 50 miles.
A Mission Rooted in Service
The mission of the 50 Mile March Foundation is simple yet profound:
To empower Veterans facing mental health challenges and homelessness by fostering a community of hope and relentless support.
Through fundraising, awareness, and community-driven programs, 50 Mile March supports local nonprofit organizations that directly serve Veterans, while also investing in long-term solutions aimed at addressing root causes of Veteran homelessness and mental health struggles.
Their vision includes the creation of a Community of Hope Campus, a dedicated space designed to provide housing, resources, stability, and belonging to Veterans working to rebuild their lives.
Why This Work Matters
The challenges facing Veterans today are both urgent and complex:
• Nearly 150 Veterans in Nebraska are experiencing homelessness
• Veteran homelessness increased by over 7% in 2023
• 17 Veteran lives are lost to suicide every day nationwide
• Veteran suicides have risen nearly 12% since 2020
• 1 in 4 Veterans face mental health challenges, with 1 in 10 battling multiple diagnoses
These numbers aren’t just statistics, they represent real people, families, and communities deeply impacted by service-related trauma. 50 Mile March exists to ensure Veterans do not face these struggles alone.
Impact by the Numbers
Since its founding in 2020, 50 Mile March has seen remarkable growth and impact. These funds help provide housing solutions, mental health services, community resources, and essential support systems for Veterans in need, ensuring every dollar translates into meaningful change.
How You Can Get Involved
The beauty of 50 Mile March is that everyone can play a role in the mission.
Become a Walker: Train, fundraise, and commit to the powerful experience of walking 50 miles in honor of those who served. Walkers become ambassadors for Veteran support, helping raise awareness and funds while building lifelong connections.
Volunteer: From event logistics to on-course encouragement, volunteers are the heartbeat of the march. Whether for a few hours or the entire event, your time helps fuel an unforgettable experience.
Sponsor: Corporate and individual sponsors make the mission possible. Sponsorship provides direct funding for Veteran programs while offering businesses a meaningful way to demonstrate community leadership.
Donate: Every donation, no matter the size, directly supports grants, housing initiatives, and Veteran services. One gift can truly change a life.
More Than a March, it’s a Movement.
What sets 50 Mile March apart is its unwavering belief in community, connection, and purpose. It’s not just about raising money. It’s about building relationships, restoring dignity, and reminding Veterans that their service still matters. Each step taken, each dollar raised, and each story shared strengthens a growing network of hope, one that refuses to let Veterans become just another statistic. For more information or to get involved, please visit: https://50milemarch.org/