By John Flowers, Addison Independent
RIPTON — Salisbury’s Chip Piper successfully completed the almost unimaginable feat of running 135 miles — five consecutive marathons in five days — in the Infinitus race at Ripton’s Silver Towers camp, held May 23-27.
But most importantly, his effort yielded pledges totaling approximately $30,000 that will be divided between two nonprofits that assist people recovering from substance use disorder: Middlebury’s Turning Point Center of Addison County, and Jenna’s House in Johnson
Piper first made a splash in his running-for-recovery efforts last year, when he completed an 88K Invictus race, also at Silver Towers, that raised $20,000 for Turning Point Center.
He decided to up the ante this year with a longer race and a bigger goal of $50K. While he didn’t hit the $50K mark, his $30,000 net will provide huge assistance to two nonprofits operating on fine margins.
Piper’s efforts to help those with substance use disorder are linked to his late son, Michael, who lost his struggle with addiction in 2020.
Turning Point Executive Director Dannielle Wallace was among the crowd of people who went to Silver Towers to cheer Chip on during his grueling run. She said Piper’s pledge proceeds will help the center expand its hours. The organization is one of 12 peer recovery centers in Vermont that offer support for individuals and their families seeking recovery from substance use disorder and other addictions.
