It takes a village to advance the mission of a nonprofit — and sometimes a whole lot of mud.

Last weekend, two incredible teams powered through 9 miles and more than 20 obstacles at the Atlanta Tough Mudder. Because of their grit, determination, and very muddy shoes, military families will stay a little more connected this year.

Team Carter’s, led by UTR board member Sean McHugh, raised more than $18,000. Team Inspire Brands/Team Brambles, led by UTR board member York Rasmusson, added another $15,000. Together, these teams raised nearly $34,000 to support United Through Reading’s work with military families.

And the bonus? It looks like they had a blast out there. We just hope no one lost a shoe in all that mud.

To every runner and every donor who made this possible: thank you. We’re so grateful you’re part of UTR’s village.