Members of the Cornell community “ran for the money” at the Delta Gamma sorority’s 5k Run/Walk for America fundraiser event, held at the Cornell Plantations on Saturday.
According to Kate O’Hara ’03, the event coordinator, 300 people registered and participated in the event and the sorority was able to raise $3700 for the American Red Cross. The funds will be used in the disaster relief efforts for the Sept. 11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. The goal was to register 100 participants and raise $1000, but the sorority was able to far exceed their intended goal.
“We were so excited about the incredible turnout. I think it shows enthusiasm and an interest in the community for supporting this cause,” O’Hara said.
According to O’Hara, the house had a very personal connection to this cause because one of the members of the sorority lost her brother in the World Trade Center.
“I think we were all particularly motivated to raise a lot of money for this effort because of her,” O’Hara said.
At the event, gift certificates were given to the first place male and female finishers, as well as to winners of the raffle. The first place finisher ran the entire 3.1 mile race barefoot.
Danielle Gorand ’04, a member of the Delta Gamma sorority, was dressed as Hannah, the house mascot that represents hope. The outfit was similar to that of Raggedy Anne.
In addition to raising money from sponsors and the $5 race entry fee, the sorority also sold red long-sleeve t-shirts. The shirts were designed by Casey Wieser ’04, a member of the sorority.
Due to the overwhelming success of the event, the organizers said that they plan to make this an annual event. In the future, some members hope to raise money for various firefighter funds, O’Hara said.
Archived article by Seth Harris