AMHERST – Decades ago, Amherst police officers were not eligible to get life insurance policies for their families due to the dangers associated with the profession.
This prompted the formation of the Amherst Police Relief Association, a charitable organization that raises money to ensure that surviving spouses and families of any officers who die, whether or not in the line of duty, have funeral expenses and other costs covered.
While life insurance is now offered to officers, Police Capt. Jennifer Gundersen said the relief association remains an important source of financial support for any deceased or disabled officer or spouse.
On May 15, an annual road race will raise money for both the association and the Jimmy Fund, which supports the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and helps children with cancer.
The Rafters College Towne Classik, in its 23rd year, features both a 5-mile run and a 5-kilometer run or walk, starting at 10:30 a.m. from the restaurant at 422 Amity St.
Gundersen said this provides options for both runners who want a casual jog and those seeking a more demanding course, as well as parents and children.
“It’s a family event,” Gundersen said, observing that strollers are allowed to be pushed on the course.
The event concludes with a post-race barbecue featuring hamburgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs, fruit, yogurt, juice, bagels and other food.
The first 300 entrants will get a free T-shirt.
To register for the race, visit www.accu-specracing.com
Scott Merzbach can be reached at smerzbach@gazettenet.com.
