WHEELING — The Ogden Newspapers Wellness Weekend, presented by WVU Medicine, is gearing up for its annual celebration, and volunteers are essential for making the two-day event a success. Scheduled for May 24-25 in downtown Wheeling, organizers are actively seeking more volunteers to help facilitate various activities.
Joe Lovell, the special projects coordinator for Ogden Newspapers, emphasized the critical role volunteers play: ‘We wouldn’t be able to do this without our sponsors or our volunteers. That’s a no-brainer.’ With a plethora of events lined up, from marathons to fun runs, there are numerous opportunities for community members to lend a hand.
The weekend kicks off on Saturday, May 24, with the Ogden Newspapers Half Marathon Classic, starting at 7:15 a.m. The schedule continues with a series of running and walking events, including the 5K Run/Walk presented by WVU Medicine Children’s. Young participants will have their turn to shine with the one-mile Ogden Fun Run followed by the Tiny Tot Trot aimed at younger children.
New this year, pets can join in the fun with the Rovers on the River event, which will take place at Heritage Port. The following day, Sunday, May 25, features a variety of biking events, including the Wheeling Heritage Trail Bicycle Tour.
Lovell mentioned that volunteers can assist with tasks ranging from handing out medals to helping coordinate events. He stated, ‘Whether it’s handing out medals or towels or helping with Rovers on the River, if anyone wants to volunteer, we’ll find a place for them.’ This initiative provides civic groups and students a chance to contribute to a community-centered event.
With an emphasis on ‘it doesn’t have to be a group of 30 people’, Lovell welcomes small groups or individuals to help contribute. ‘They’re not doing it for anything in return. They just want to help,’ he added, highlighting the spirit of community involvement.
Jim Spanner, the general manager of The Intelligencer, added that the Wellness Weekend is an annual event celebrating the Ohio Valley and its people. ‘It’s the people who volunteer their time that make this weekend so special each year,’ he said. Volunteers are encouraged to contact Lovell for more information on how to participate.
For those interested in registering for events, visit ogdenwellnessweekend.com.
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