Run raises funds for Habitat chapter

Kevin Allen

The WKU chapter of Habitat for Humanity is taking a step in the right direction with their third annual Habidash.

This Saturday in Kereiakes Park, participants can run either a 5K or a 10K.

“I think the trail is really pretty in Kereiakes,” said Murray junior Kristen Mikulcik, coordinator of the event. “I think it will be a fun race.”

All the proceeds go to the campus chapter of Habitat, said Erlanger junior Noah Onkst, president of the chapter.

The chapter does more than just construct low-income houses, Onkst said.

They focus more on education about housing issues, advocating to policy makers and fundraising to pay for construction and travel, Onkst said.

He said this is why Habitat is for all people and all interests, not just those who are interested in construction.

Habidash is the chapter’s largest fundraiser, and last year it brought in $1500, said Christy Beyke, a senior from Franklin, Tenn., who organized the first two Habidash events.

Beyke said people should come and support Habitat because it encourages people to actively pursue goals in tangible ways.

“I like organizations where you go out and do things instead of sitting around or putting up fliers and not knowing if it is really making a difference,” she said.

Beyke said with Habitat, she gets to see the results of her work.

“You know you’re actually doing good – you aren’t just sending off a check,” she said. “You get to see it happening. That’s what is really cool about it.”

The cost is either $20 to run five kilometers or $25 to run 10 kilometers, Mikulcik said.

Registration can be submitted online at www.wku.edu/habitat or sent to the address listed on the form.

Registering on the day of the race is an option but costs $5 extra, Mikulcik said.

The 5K race will begin at 8 a.m., and the 10K race will begin at 9 a.m., she said. There are free T-shirts for those who participate.

Participants can walk the 5K if they aren’t comfortable running, but because of time restraints, the 10K is for runners only, Mikulcik said.