Kerry Chester’s 450-Mile Journey for Female Empowerment in Nebraska
GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — An Omaha resident, Kerry Chester, is undertaking an inspiring 450-mile trek across Nebraska to raise $50,000 aimed at funding scholarships for women and supporting female veterans. Chester began her journey on September 12, departing from Gering and making steady progress eastward toward Omaha, having already covered over 310 miles.
A Challenging Yet Empowering Mission
Chester acknowledges the grueling nature of her walk, stating, “No feet are really prepared to walk 450 miles.” Despite physical challenges, she remains committed to her cause. The journey was conceived two years ago, following her establishment of Unite Nebraska 450, a nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating charitable initiatives for women.
A Purpose-Driven Journey
Chester’s organization has previously enabled scholarships for Nebraska’s first girls’ national flag football team, helping them participate in a national tournament. With her current expedition, Chester aims to expand educational opportunities for women across the state. “I’m doing this for women. It’s for female veterans. It’s for our girls to have a strong role model in our state,” she expressed, emphasizing her mission to inspire young girls, particularly those who have faced adversity.
Veteran Advocacy and Community Support
Having served in the military alongside her husband, Chester is particularly focused on supporting female veterans, a priority that surfaced after their transition to civilian life in 2017. “It’s really hard to find community as a woman,” she noted, spearheading efforts to create support networks for women veterans experiencing challenges.
Fostering Brotherhood through Rucking
Throughout her journey, Chester has found companionship and support in fellow veterans, including Katie Higgason, who has joined her on this arduous trek. Higgason remarked, “I knew this is where I needed to be; walking across Nebraska is not something that you can do alone.” Together, they navigate the numerous hurdles posed by the journey.
Community Engagement and Route Adjustments
Chester’s initiative has garnered attention and support from community members and local law enforcement. Volunteers assist in an RV dubbed “Big Bertha,” which has been crucial in navigating the challenges of the route, particularly with recent construction rendering parts of Highway 30 unsafe. “Well, we had multiple friends, family, and law enforcement stop us,” Chester explained, highlighting the community’s involvement.
Progress and Future Goals
Averaging approximately 30 miles per day, Chester plans to complete her journey by reaching Omaha on September 26. Her determination reflects a powerful commitment to empowering women and supporting female veterans, motivating many along the way.