More than one hundred people from the Union and Jackson community participated in the Chi Omega Run for a Wish Homecoming 5k Saturday at 8:30 a.m. The race started and ended on the sidewalks adjacent to Miller Tower.
The 3.1-mile course looped twice around Union’s campus. As runners and walkers covered the course, Chi Omega members cheered the participants on at various locations along the route. Chi Omega had a DJ playing music as runners came through the finish line. Light food and drinks were served afterwards.
Katy Wade, senior biology major, organized the event as the community service chair of Chi Omega sorority. Plans for hosting the 5k last spring fell through, so it was then arranged to schedule it during homecoming weekend this fall. Wade said researching alumni was a big part of gaining support through participation and provision of funds toward the philanthropy event.
In the past, Chi Omega hasn’t always had a set placement in the homecoming schedule. Wade said she is glad the 5k has focused more on community participation this year, not just being an exclusive Greek event. All proceeds from the event went to Make-a-Wish to grant a child a wish.
“We are trying to grant another wish, and this is one of our big players in getting the money for it,” Wade said.
“I’m excited to run in it,” Fletcher said. “This is the third time we’ve ever had it, but it’s different from the other ones (in the past) because it actually involves the community of Jackson, whereas things like the barbecue that we do only attracts only our parents and Union students.”
Wade said she is most excited about the funds to be raised by the event that will contribute to granting a wish through Make-a-Wish.
