Raeford kids do ‘Miles For Monroe’ to support camp

Camp Monroe has offered summer camp and programs for children since 1954, but this year, due to COVID-19, the camp was forced to put things on hold. A family in Hoke County is working to help the camp through the difficult time by holding a unique 10-mile run.

Talene Munson and her children Justice, Aurora, Liberty, Max and Freedom have done multiple fundraisers over the last few years to support the camp. From buying recreation equipment to helping pay for a child to attend, the Munsons sold lemonade and held other fundraisers.

Now, they’re working to help Camp Monroe during the pandemic.

“Camp Monroe is a nonprofit organization that has been a special place for children for almost 70 years. Camp Monroe sponsors campers each year including foster home children, where this is the only time each year that these brothers and sisters see each other. With the current situation, events that keep the camp going have been either postponed until next year or all together cancelled,” the family wrote in a message.

In response, the Munson family started “Miles for Monroe.”

“On May 30, we will be running 10 miles in an effort to raise money, to give Camp Monroe the chance to continue to provide a summer escape for future generations to enjoy,” the family wrote in a message about the effort. “You can donate as little or as much as you want, every little bit helps. We also encourage you to join us from your neighborhood, treadmill, favorite running trail or wherever, as we run. Please, help us to give future campers a chance to enjoy Camp Monroe.”

The family and camp director Andrew Plyler collaborated on a promotional video at the camp explaining what the Munsons are doing.

“We are fortunate to have such caring families as part of Camp Monroe,” Plyler said in an email.

The Munsons have already raised nearly $1,000 of their $5,000 goal.

To view the Munsons video and find links to donate to the fundraiser, go online to https://www.monroecamp.org/MFM. Donation checks can be sent directly to Camp Monroe, 24501 Camp Monroe Rd., Laurel Hill, NC  28351.