One of my favorite things about running is that I can do something great for myself while doing good for others at the same time. Many races donate proceeds to charitable foundations, and I'm a sucker for a good charity. I volunteer often and I've organized fundraisers and toy drives for local organizations and I live for helping others (after all, I am getting a master's in counseling).
The 5K I completed in July was the Splash Mob 5K in Tempe, Arizona. This run is somewhat unique in that it wasn't designed to donate a little to charity in order to put on a run; it was designed to put on a run so they could donate to charity. The organizer of this race couldn't be more passionate about helping others. I had the pleasure of meeting him at the packet pick-up, and he was so passionate about making a difference. Along with registration fees, participants were required to donate two non-perishable food items. Profits and donations were then provided to a local school for homeless children that works to make sure these kids have a safe place to go, clothes to wear, and food to eat.
It was an absolute honor to participate in a run that does so much good, and I had a great time while I was at it. There were kids throwing water balloons and spraying the runners with water guns along the course. At the end, the participants were allowed to enter Big Surf Water Park and splash around in the wave pool. Overall, it was very well organized, and I truly enjoyed this race. I ran with my step-mom and even managed a PR. Don't laugh... I know it's still slow. But considering where I started? I'll take my shiny new 47:25.8 thank you very much!
No comments:
Post a Comment