Helen Hipps

Read about Helen's contributions to the club and learn some fun facts about the woman who rarely watches TV (not surprisingly, she's too busy to be glued to the tube).

Please list the Reston Runners programs and/or events that you volunteer for.
This past year, I've helped with the Women's Distance Festival, the Fall Into Winter race, the JFK 50 race, and other club volunteer events such as the March of Dimes registration. I also like to show up and just help out at the Thanksgiving Run and other events.

What do you like best about doing volunteer work for the club?
It's hard to get fired! The pay is poor, but the rewards are great. Really, though, I enjoy volunteering for the club because of the people, the amazing runs/events we (as a community) are able to make happen, and the great fun we have. Reston Runners is made up of amazing individuals, and it is my pleasure to get to know them on a more personal basis through volunteering and working together.

Please tell us an unusual fact about yourself or talent that you have that few people know about.
Ed Cacciapaglia and I were married 6 years ago in Key West, Florida. I guess it's confusing because we have different last names, but people are always coming up to me to say they just realized we are a couple. Here are some more little-known facts: First, I had to give up knitting because it was "too stressful." I loved the Zen and rhythm of the process, but the production part was way too challenging. Second, I watch very little television but am addicted to House and Garden TV when I'm on vacation.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was about 8 years, I wanted to be a pioneer wife and mom, driving my horse-drawn wagon across the country (from Illinois) to the Wild West in search of a better life. I'd sit on the end of my twin bed, dolls and animals behind me, pretending to steer the horse drawn-wagon as my handsome husband rode alongside on his horse, keeping the Indians at bay. As you might imagine, in 1962, this fantasy only went so far! Later, I wanted to be a nurse. My grandma Helen, whom I am named after, always wanted to be a nurse but never had the opportunity. She hoped I would be a nurse. I was able to fulfill her dream--and mine--and I have never regretted it.

We Need You!
Want to pitch in and help out the club, too? Reston Runners offers a variety of programs and activities you can volunteer for:
Course Marking  
Gungadins (Water support)  
Finish Line Services  
Youth in Motion program
Women's Training Program
Women's Distance Festival
Stats and Chats reporter

In addition, we can always use your help for the Fall Into Winter race, the annual summer picnic and pool party, the annual dinner meeting, W&OD trail cleanup days, crewing and other tasks for the JFK50 race, and the periodic blood drives the club sponsors.