The fourth running of the Northeast Cobb Business Association 5K-9 Run is taking place on June 9, and this year the event will be raising money for the purchase and training of a service dog for a military veteran. 
The run starts at 8 a.m. at Piedmont Church (570 Piedmont Road), and NCBA is soliciting sponsorships (between $250 and $5,000) as well as accepting online registrations (between $10 and $25 in advance).
Frank Wigington of the NCBA said past events have raised funds for dogs for the Cobb County Police Department, the Cobb Sheriff’s Office and for an autistic child in East Cobb.
This year, the business group asked Cobb Superior Court Judge Reuben Greene to assist in finding a recipient for a service dog, and a veteran who is dealing with PTSD and other issues has been identified.
In remarks to his counterparts at the East Cobb Business Association on Tuesday, Wigington said the costs for the purchase and training have grown since the initial events raised around $15,000 each.
He said if this year’s event raises more money than what’s needed for the veteran’s dog, other proceeds will be provided to the Cobb Fire Department to purchase oxygen masks for dogs dispatched for rescue work, and possibly for iPads for special needs students in Cobb County.
“The money will be spent, but it will be spent wisely,” Wigington said.
The 5-K9 Run includes a puppy trot for children 8 and under that’s $10 in advance, and $15 on race day. The 5K run/walk is $25 in advance and $30 on race day.
Awards are presented to overall and masters winners, as well as several children’s age groups.
Anyone who is entered can bring their dog along for the event.
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