Runner rallies others to ‘Race Against Hunger’

Woodland — A Woodland High School student’s love of recreational running led to him create a July charity race that brought in almost $2,000 for the Clark County Food Bank. Michael Mentler organized the Race Against Hunger, held July 27 at Holland America Bulb Farms in Woodland. In May, the cross-country runner and track and field athlete came up with the fundraiser as a senior project. Mentler said he picked the charity as his benefactor because he’d taken part for many years in the Turkey Trot, which also raises money for the food bank. The incoming high school senior went door-to-door asking for donations and gave presentations to local clubs asking for their support. “This project required me to step out of my comfort zone several times and to develop leadership qualities,” Mentler said in an email.