KENOSHA, WI, Aug. 6, 2024 – The Milwaukee American Heart Association is gearing up for its Southeast Wisconsin Heart and Stroke Walk next month.

But closer to home – with the backdrop of “walking where you are” – local Kenosha and Racine-area residents can get their steps in later this month at UW-Parkside.

For the fourth straight year, Trevor-based Vonco Products is hosting a 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, Aug. 24 on the Wayne E. Dannehl National Cross Country Course on Petrifying Springs Road.

Check-in begins at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K run at 9 a.m. and the walk of either one mile or 5K at 10 a.m. The event will be held rain or shine, and the course features stroller-friendly paths. Food and drink also will be available.

The cost for the run is $35, and the walk is free. All proceeds will benefit the American Heart Association’s Milwaukee Heart and Stroke Walk, set for Saturday, Sept. 21, at Veterans Park.

“This is an extremely important event for Vonco, as it has shown our communities how much we care about them by focusing on life-saving heart procedures, living healthy and nutritious lifestyles and supporting our local community and partners,” Vonco President Keith Smith said.

Smith has been pleased with the growth of the event, which began just for Vonco employees and staff, but since has included support from both UW-Parkside and the American Heart Association.

And the cause is personal to Smith as well.

“(It’s grown) to an event that supports two counties with the AHA and Parkside as key partners to keep the momentum going,” he said.

“This is a way for Vonco and myself to show we care more (by giving) back to areas that have supported us in the past. I have heart disease in my family, and (I’m) committed to finding ways to beat the odds through healthy living. The AHA is a beacon to these values. In addition, athletics and education have been a pillar at Vonco. UWP represents these values.”

Parkside Athletic Director Adam Schemm said the university is excited to again partner with both Vonco and the American Heart Association.

“Parkside Athletics is grateful to be able to continue our partnership with Vonco Products and the American Heart Association for another year of this great event,” Schemm said. “Parkside is a pillar of Southeastern Wisconsin, and we are dedicated to being an impactful and engaged partner to our community as we move forward.”

In addition to the walk/run, participants are encouraged to stick around afterward for a picnic and a bouncy house for kids to enjoy, Smith said.

To register for the Aug. 24 event, visit: https://runsignup.com/race/wi/kenosha/ahaparksideclassic5krun.

To register for the 2024 SE Wisconsin Heart & Stroke Walk/5k Run in Milwaukee in September, visit: SEWIHeartWalk.org.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For more information or to set up an interview, contact Milwaukee American Heart Association Marketing Communications Director Dan Truttschel at dan.truttschel@heart.org or by cell phone at 262-903-9038