Kane County Assistance Program

The Grand to Grand Ultra is so much more than just a foot race. It challenges the human body mentally, physically and emotionally. This self-supported race covers 171 miles of intense terrain with several thousand feet of elevation gain/loss with some of the most spectacular views starting from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona all the way to the Grand Staircase in Utah.

Every step in this journey will require a strong will and determination to overcome the mental, emotional and physical challenges the Grand to Grand Ultra will present. And I intend to run this race to help those in need.

The Kane County Assistant Program is a community based, non denominational organization that helps residents of Kane County, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona who are struggling with food, utilities, gas, or any other specific needs.

Can you remember a time in your life when you needed support with one or more of these things? I know I can think of times in my life when I’ve needed to swallow my pride and reach out to my support system to help me. And how fortunate am I to have people in my life who are so willing to lend a hand. There are folks out there who are struggling and may not have a support system to lean on. That is why I am asking you all to help me help these people in need by lending a hand and donating to this wonderful organization. Every dollar counts! Thank you!!

Hello! My name is Melanie Rader, and I am fortunate to have received a scholarship to run the Grand to Grand Ultra. This 171-mile self-supported footrace takes place in Arizona and Utah, USA starting from the edge of the Grand Canyon and finishing at the top of the Grand Staircase. This scholarship is awarded to two Kane County residents each year, and as a way to give back to our community, I am fundraising to benefit the Kane County Assistance Program (Kcap).

The Kane County Assistance Program is a community-based, non-denominational organization that provides direct assistance to residents who live in Kane County, Utah and surrounding areas in need of short-term assistance for food, utilities, gas or other specific needs.

Although I am an experienced hiker, runner, and outdoors person, the Grand to Grand Ultra is a grueling undertaking and an ambitious objective. I will spend seven days completing a total of 6 stages in a self-supported fashion. I will carry a week's worth of supplies, including sleep gear and food, traversing some of the most challenging terrain day after day. My training must consist of punishing days of climbing sand dunes and rocky faces, ambitious backpacking trips, and strength training. To say that I am intimidated would be an understatement. These are the elements for creating an experience of a lifetime!

Any donation helps! For more information on the Kane County Assistance Program: https://kanecountyassist.org/

For more information on the Grand to Grand Ultra:

https://g2gultra.com/

To follow along with my training and other updates, follow me on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/mel.ogna/