“Running teaches us that we are capable of so much more than we ever imagined.”
We are honored to announce that Band of Runners is Operation MIG’s third-quarter recipient. Launched in 2016, Band of Runners hosts annual trail running camps located in Texas Hill Country for veterans and gold star family members. In August, Midwest Insurance Group owner Jeremy Cardenas ran the Badger 100 Mile Trail Race in Belleville, Wisconsin, while raising funds for Band of Runners. Midwest Insurance Group matched the funds Jeremy raised, furthering the impact of his efforts. Five of his colleagues—Matt Wallace, Anthony Edgren, Jacob Giesen, Billy Ray Huebner and Curt Ranweiler—also supported the event, serving as pacers, crew members and aid station volunteers.
About Band of Runners
Band of Runners is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting military veterans and their surviving family members through the healing power of community and trail running. By bringing people together through shared experiences and time on the trails at a camp, they help veterans build meaningful connections, find support, and stay active. Key offerings of the organization include:
- Trail Camps – Annual immersive camps that introduce veterans to trail running, featuring instruction from elite trail runners, group runs, campfires, and storytelling.
- Mentorship – Ongoing guidance from experienced mountain, ultra, and trail runners, as well as coaches and race directors.
- Community & Support – Day-of-race support and community events to help participants build connections and find camaraderie.
How to Get Involved
There are many ways to get involved with Band of Runners, whether that’s supporting runners at races, making a financial contribution, or sharing the organization’s powerful story.
Band of Runners actively coordinates opportunities for volunteers to assist veterans and gold star family members on the trails as follows:
- Pacers: You can volunteer to run alongside veterans during races to offers companionship, help manage speed, navigate terrain, and keep motivation high.
- Crew and Aid Station Support: Volunteer as support staff at various trail events throughout the year by handling gear, handing out water and snacks, and assisting with day-of-race needs. If you cannot volunteer or attend a race, you can provide direct support through the following ways:
- Sponsor a Trail Camper: You can fund the cost for a veteran or gold star family member to attend the annual Trail Camp free of charge.
- General Donations: Financial contributions go directly toward travel costs, running gear, lodging, and event costs.
- Use Amazon Smile: AmazonSmile is a website operated by Amazon with the same products, pricing and shopping features as Amazon.Com. The difference is that when you shop AmazonSmile, 5% of the purchase price of eligible products can be directed to Band of Runners.
- Purchase Band of Runners Gear: Check out the store by visiting https://www.tenjunkmiles.com/store category=Band+of+Runners
Spreading the Word
Not everyone can volunteer their time or make a financial contribution, but everyone can help spread the word. Sharing a nonprofit’s story, following their journey, and inviting others into their mission can have a powerful ripple effect.
Make sure to follow and share the Band of Runners Mission on:
- Website
Final Thoughts
Operation MIG is a promise. A promise to show up, to give back, and to use the platform we have built to make a difference that extends far beyond our walls. We are honored to support organizations that are doing the same, creating spaces where veterans and their families can find connection, purpose, and renewed hope.
Contact Band of Runners
For more information or to get involved, head to the Band of Runners website at https://www.bandofrunners.org/