Hundreds of runners, walkers, and volunteers will take part in the Seventh Annual 5K Race for Humanity Walk/Run to benefit Livengrin Foundation for Addiction Recovery on Saturday, March 31 at 9 a.m.
The race, organized by USciences’ academic service fraternity Omega Chi Psi, draws a large, enthusiastic crowd each year. The 5K course will once again wind its way through The Woodlands, a national historic cemetery, adjacent to campus. What started as a student initiative in 2006, grows yearly as community members and USciences students and staff continue to show their unwavering support for the 5K. Despite its yearly evolution, the race’s mission to benefit charity has remained unchanged.
"Together, through the efforts of the 5K Race for Humanity, we can combat drug and alcohol addiction one step at a time." said Lenny Vinciguerra PharmD’14, race co-coordinator, about this year’s charitable recipient.
The race has raised an impressive $44,000 for prominent local and national charities over the last six years. The American Red Cross Measles Initiative, HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy, CureSearch, the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House, ActionAIDS, and the Marie Vinciguerra Benefit Fund have all profited from Omega Chi Psi’s hard work and dedication to service. The 5K Race for Humanity furthers the mission of each charity not only by raising funds, but also by spreading awareness.
Mary Kate McGinty, executive director for External Affairs, Mayes College of Healthcare Business & Policy, has served as the race advisor since its initiation and looks forward to each year’s 5K with great enthusiasm.
“It has been both a pleasure and an inspiration to work with the students of Omega Chi Psi over the last 7 years to help organize this annual event.” McGinty explained. “Their commitment to making the world a better place one race at a time proves that amazing things can be achieved by working together.”
Runners will gather at the Athletic/Recreation Center (ARC) at 43rd St and Woodland Avenue for registration at 7:30 a.m. Race marshals and water stations will provide participants with comfort and support. Participants can expect a free t-shirt and be invited to partake in a raffle. An award ceremony will recognize the best times in numerous categories.
Registration fees: Prior to March 22: $20 adults, $10 for 14 and under. Race day: $25 adults, $12 for 14 and under.
For more information or registration details, visit usciences.edu/5krace or email raceforhumanity@gmail.com.