Team USO: Cheryl Sims

For Cheryl Sims, running has always been about more than the miles—it’s about purpose, perseverance, and service. What began in the early 2010s as participation in 5Ks and 10Ks to support a local school for children on the autism spectrum has since evolved into a much broader journey of community involvement and personal growth. In the past three years alone, she has taken on long-distance obstacle races, a triathlon, two base-sponsored 10-mile runs, and several half marathons, including the Garmin Half in Kansas City, Missouri.

But it’s her role as a dedicated USO Volunteer at Fort Riley that truly fuels her sense of purpose. Since August 2023, Cheryl has served as the USO representative at the weekly Victory Welcome Soldier Intake Information Fair, where she helps newly arriving service members navigate available resources and support networks.

This is why Cheryl Sims is running in the Pittsburgh Marathon as a part of Team USO on Sunday, May 4, 2025.

“In 2024 alone, I’ve had the opportunity to pass along details about the services and programs available at the USO to 3,673 incoming soldiers,” Cheryl shares with pride.

Her impact doesn’t stop there. Every Wednesday, Cheryl helps prepare and serve meals at the USO Center at Fort Riley.

“Though my time volunteering at the USO is pale in comparison to others,” she says humbly, “what my current roles have allowed me to do is support people from all walks of life.”

Cheryl considers being part of the USO not only a personal mission, but also a privilege.

“The USO is known worldwide,” she says. “It would be a great honor and a huge personal achievement to be afforded the opportunity to be a part of Team USO.”

As the spouse of an active-duty soldier—who left a successful civilian tech career to join the military later in life—Cheryl brings a unique perspective to military life. She balances her full-time work in software development with parenting, grandparenting, and a deep commitment to giving back.

“We live our lives to be appreciative of all we have,” she says, “and if we find ways within the community to serve others, then we serve ourselves and become the best humans we can be.”

Whether crossing a finish line or welcoming new service members to the USO Center at Fort Riley, Cheryl embodies the USO’s mission of connection, comfort, and care. Backed by a supportive family and driven by gratitude, she is proud to serve both on the course and in the community.

You can help Cheryl reach her Pittsburgh Marathon fundraising goals by donating here: She Runs For A Purpose! Let’s raise $1500 for the USO!