On your mark. Get set. GO! Alpha Chi Omega is hosting a 5k run/walk on Oct. 19 at the Harden Club House. The race will support October’s Domestic Violence Month and benefit Alamance Country’s Abuse Services.

“We have been dedicated to helping the Family Abuse Services in Burlington since our founding,” said Lisa Denny, Alpha Chi Omega vice president of philanthropy. “This race will continue that tradition.”

The chapter enjoys the opportunity to help a charity.

“The money is going somewhere local,” said Cody Andras, chapter president, “And they don’t get a lot of publicity, so it is nice to help them.”

Family Abuse Services in Burlington is dedicated to the prevention and intervention of domestic violence. It provides an emergency crisis service, support groups and community education.

“We really want to make this a successful, annual event and do some good in the local community,” Denny said.

She wants to get as many people on campus and in the community involved as possible.

“We really want to make this bigger than just Alpha Chi. Everyone is encouraged to sign up,” she said.

The organization’s philanthropy is one of the reasons why Denny joined.

“Domestic Violence is an issue that directly affects women of all ages, races and lifestyles,” she said. “That is why I hope that a lot of women on this campus will come out and help support such a great cause.”

Junior Maureen Grewe will compete in the event.

“I’ve been training and I think this is a great opportunity to help women,” she said.

Grewe is an avid runner, and hopes to encourage those who do not run regularly to start.

“Showing support in this way is an outward symbol of our personal support,” she said.

Winners will receive prizes from local venders, which include $300 worth of jewelry from The Jewelry Village and gift certificates to Wal-Mart.

The fee to sign up is $10 dollars, and participants will receive an event T-shirt and a purple awareness bracelet.

Those interested should sign up in Moseley or contact Lisa Denny at ldenny@elon.edu.

Features Editor: Leigh Ann Vanscoy - 10/10/07