Officer Shawn Silvera Memorial 5K

Officer Shawn Silvera's Story

Officer Shawn Silvera, of the Lino Lakes Police Department, made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty on September 6, 2005, while deploying stop-sticks during a high-speed chase. His life was taken tragically at the age of 32, leaving behind his wife and two young children. This race is held in his memory and pays tribute to a life dedicated to service. Fallen but never forgotten.
Life is made by what we give. Run with us!

The Invisible Wounds Project

Our mission is to support the mental health and well-being of veterans, first responders, and their families. We connect these individuals with therapists experienced in their unique challenges and offer wellness programs and social opportunities to help them engage with their communities. Our initiatives strengthen family ties, build a supportive network, and benefit hundreds each year by fostering purpose and giving back. Donations and fundraising efforts like this are essential, enabling us to continue providing these vital services and expanding our impact within the community.

The Public Safety Challenge is a special event within the Shawn Silvera 5k dedicated to honoring all first responders, including Law Enforcement, Firefighters, EMS personnel, front-line medical staff, Corrections officers, Dispatch professionals, and Military members. This challenge brings these heroes together in a friendly competition, where teams compete for a coveted traveling trophy. Challenge Accepted!
How to Participate
You can form a Public Safety Challenge Team or join an existing one to be part of the excitement and camaraderie.
•    A minimum of four runners is required to create a team.
•    The team captain registers the team with a chosen team name.
•    At least two team members must be current or former First Responders.
•    The remaining two runners can be friends or family members recruited by the team.
•    The best three finishing places from a team will determine the Challenge Champions, and at least two of these three must be First Responders whose place points are scored.

The Civilian 5k Challenge is a spirited race held in tandem with the Public Safety Challenge, inviting all runners who seek not only personal achievement but also the opportunity to pay tribute to our nation’s veterans and first responders. Whether running solo or as part of a team—of any size—participants join together in recognition of the courage and dedication shown by those who serve.

• No service record is required; everyone is welcome to participate.
• Participants may run solo or as part of a team of any size.
• For teams, the top three finishers’ places will be counted to determine the Civilian Challenge Champions.
• All runners in both the Civilian 5k Challenge and the Public Safety Challenge are eligible for special awards.

The day is designed to celebrate healthy competition and honor the enduring legacy of our heroes.

Donations: 
Our first responders give so much every day. Help us give back! Proceeds from the run support The Invisible Wounds Project and the Police Explorers for youth considering a career in law enforcement. Consider making a $10 donation at registration—the cost of a fancy latte at Starbucks or a chicken quesadilla at Taco Bell. Your generosity makes a difference, and it feels good to give!
Become a Fundraiser! Sign up to become one of our fundraisers.  It's the best way to contribute the most and comes with it's own set of awards!

Vendor Fair

We are pleased to invite vendors to participate. This event provides an excellent opportunity for businesses and organizations to promote their products and services while connecting with a large audience of first responders, veterans, and their friends and families.

Booth Space Details
Vendors will be offered booth space at no cost during the event. We encourage participating vendors to make the most of this opportunity to engage with attendees and showcase their offerings.

Donation Request
While there is no fee for booth space, we kindly request a donation of 15% or more from the profits made on race day. Your generous contribution will help support Invisible Wounds Project and its mission.

How to Secure Your Spot
Space for vendors is limited. To reserve your booth, please email Matt at matt@iwproject.org

Sponsorship Opportunities
Become a sponsor, get involved, and help support our first responders! Companies and individuals looking to show their appreciation can contribute through sponsorships. We offer sponsorship levels to match your interest and involvement.  For more details click "Become a Sponsor!" in the menu at the top of this page or email: matt@iwproject.org

Join fellow runners on September 20, 2026 for the Officer Shawn Silvera Memorial 5K. It's a fantastic 5K, 1.6K featuring a flat and fast course in Forest Lake.