North Platte, NE — September 6, 2025 — Grab your leash, lace up your shoes, and join us at Iron Horse Park for the annual Doggy Dash 5K & 1-Mile Walk/Run — now in its second decade as the major fundraiser for Community Connections. This year's event promises fun, fitness, and purpose, with a special visit from Jax, the crisis canine, and his handler, to remind us all of the healing power of connection.
Whether you run, walk, or trot alongside your furry friend (or come solo!), participants will receive a long-sleeve race t-shirt, earn Platte River Fitness Series points, and be eligible for medals and prizes.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
Location: Iron Horse Park, North Platte, NE
Time: Race-day registration and packet pickup begin at 7:45 AM | Race starts at 8:45 AM
Distance Options: 5K or 1 Mile — with or without a dog Register Online: platteriverfitness.com/doggy
Register by Mail: Community Connections, P.O. Box 852, North Platte, NE 69103
About Community Connections
Since 1988, Community Connections has worked to create positive, lasting change for youth and families across Lincoln County and beyond. We invest in prevention, leadership, and support programs that build a stronger, healthier, more connected community. Proceeds from the Doggy Dash support three key initiatives:
Mentoring
Our community-based mentoring program builds strong, supportive relationships that help youth thrive. Mentoring pairs meet regularly for 4 to 8 hours each month, connecting in public spaces or over school lunch, with opportunities to join monthly group activities. The program helps youth feel valued, heard, and supported, equipping them with tools to handle stress and build confidence. 100% of respondents rated the program positively, with the majority giving it the highest possible rating. Mentors often share that the experience brings them a renewed sense of purpose and greater hope for the future. Mentoring is a powerful way to make a lasting impact—one relationship at a time.
Substance Abuse Prevention System (SAPS)
SAPS is a 20+ member coalition that meets monthly to plan and implement strategies that help keep youth safe, healthy, and substance-free. The coalition hosts prescription drug take-back events on the third Saturday of each month at Bomgaars, distributes medication lock boxes to promote safe storage, and provides alcohol tamper-evident strips to support parents in preventing underage drinking. Through education, community engagement, and practical tools, SAPS works to reduce access to harmful substances and protect young people from the risks of marijuana, prescription drug misuse, and underage alcohol use.
Tobacco-Free Lincoln County (TFLC)
TFLC works to create a healthier, tobacco-free future by reducing use and exposure in our community. The coalition focuses on helping individuals quit tobacco, preventing youth from starting (including e-cigarettes), and eliminating exposure to secondhand smoke and aerosol. TFLC also works to address health disparities linked to commercial tobacco use through outreach, education, and advocacy. By promoting smoke-free environments and providing resources for families, TFLC helps protect the health of both current and future generations.
Bonus: Meet Jax, the Crisis Canine