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Justin Verlander's 'Wins For Warriors' Organization Looks To Help Veterans With 9K Walk

DETROIT (WWJ) -- Justin Verlander, along with other organizations, is gearing up to give back to those who serve our country.

Verlander's Wins for Warriors organization is partnering with Opportunity Detroit to engage the community and raise awareness for local mental health programs and services supporting veterans and their families, while offering an unforgettable experience in downtown Detroit.

Wins for Warriors recently announced a 9K event to benefit veterans this Memorial Day, May 25. Runners and walkers will have a chance to cross the home plate at Comerica Park, while honoring the brave men and women who have served our country during the inaugural Wins for Warriors Detroit 9K.

"I am honored to continue my support of our veterans and their families," Verlander said. "The race occurs on an important day when we collectively acknowledge the great men and women who have served in our country's armed forces.  On Memorial Day, we recognize their service, honor them, and support them and their families."

In 2013, Verlander announced a commitment of $1 million to launch Wins for Warriors and provide mental health support to Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and their families in Detroit, Richmond and Norfolk.

According to a study by RAND, approximately one-third of men and women who were deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan will experience Post Traumatic Stress (PSTD), Traumatic Brain Injury and/or Depression.

"Opportunity Detroit is honored to support the first-ever Wins for Warriors Detroit 9K, a fun, family-friendly event raising awareness for a cause so important to our nation," Vice President of Rock Ventures Lisa Dancsok said. "We are proud to both recognize and thank the brave men and women who sacrificed so much to protect our country's freedoms, and partner with an organization that provides the assistance necessary for those who serve to reintegrate into society."

Registration fees for Wins for Warriors Detroit 9K are $25 per person or $35 per person who chooses to also cover the participation fee for a veteran. There is a $100 fundraising minimum per participant (no fundraising minimum for veterans and their families). For more information, visit www.crowdrise.com/Detroit9K.

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