Memorial run raises $10K for Smith Falls trails

The Tyler Vanderheiden Memorial Run, an annual race aimed at raising awareness and understanding of mental health, raised $10,000 for Nebraska Game and Parks state park trails in 2024.

To date, supporters of the Vanderheiden Memorial run have contributed more than $30,000 to the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation to support trails.

Runners from every state in the nation and all 93 Nebraska counties participated either virtually or in-person in this year’s May 25 race, which brought together hundreds of people united around raising mental health awareness. Participants used the hashtags #PreventSuicide and #Run4TJV when they shared their race stories, memories of Tyler and their connection to the outdoors.

“The outpouring of support is a true reflection of the love we have for our precious son, Tyler,” said Shannon Vanderheiden, Tyler’s mother. “Our race efforts are just a glimpse of the important work and impact that Tyler has had on the lives of others, even those who never had the privilege of meeting him.

“For many the great outdoors holds a healing power that nurtures both our physical and mental health well-being, and we are humbled and grateful for the support we receive through Ty’s race to continue raising awareness about the importance of mental health well-being and suicide prevention. Thank you for being part of our family’s journey. Together, we are building a legacy of love and hope that will live on for generations to come.”

The annual event began in 2020 with the intent of being a space for healing and support for those who struggle with mental health or know someone who has, and since 2022, has benefitted trails across the state.

Funds donated this year will be used to support trail upgrades at Smith Falls State Park, home to Nebraska’s highest waterfall, and the donation could trigger access of up to $32,000 in matching federal Recreation Trails Program funds if a grant application by Game and Parks is successful this fall.

The run is organized by the Platte River Fitness Series, with support by West Central District Health Department, where Vanderheiden serves as executive director.

“Memorial races like this one resonate with runners in a special way,” said Trudy Merritt, series director. “Attaching something bigger than ourselves to a hard effort creates space for meaning making, something necessary for human flourishing.”

People continue to connect with the race’s message, helping to spread the word and shine a light on mental health and available resources.

The 2025 race is set for May 31.

To learn more, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov and search for “Tyler Vanderheiden Memorial Run.”