Shamrock Run raises $35,000 to prevent child abuse

Libby Thornton photos

Runners participate in KD's annual Shamrock Run to fight child abuse.

Troy University’s Kappa Delta (KD) sorority raised $35,000 at its annual Shamrock Run this past Saturday for its philanthropy, Prevent Child Abuse America.

Kappa Delta partnered with the Child Advocacy Center, a subset of Prevent Child Abuse America, to launch the fundraiser.

Participants had the option to run or walk in a 5k (3.1 miles) or a one-mile race. Getting doused in colorful chalk was also optional.

Kappa Delta Philanthropy Chair Kingsly Mixon is a sophomore majoring in social work from Panama City, Florida

“It makes me so happy to see all these people supporting our philanthropy,” Mixon said. “The child advocacy center here in Troy is a great facility and they do so many amazing things.

“To see this community of people gather and help raise money for the child advocacy center truly makes my heart happy. My dream is to work at the child advocacy center back home in Panama City, so to see that happen here in Troy really means a lot to me.”

Kappa Delta managed to raise $35,000 for the Child Advocacy Center, surpassing their set goal of $33,000.

Executive Director of the Pike Regional Child Advocacy Center Kaley Green, shared the significance of the funds raised.

“80% of the money that Kappa Delta has raised stays here locally in Troy,” Green said. “All of the child advocacy center’s services are free.

“The money that they raised helps us continue to make sure our services continue to remain free. 10% of the money goes to our national organization, which is to prevent child abuse America.”

Kappa Delta alumna, Daphne Davis, returned for a fifth time to participate in this year’s shamrock run.

“I come back every year to support KD’s philanthropy, Prevent Child Abuse America” Davis said. “It’s always great turnout, and this year is no different.

“Both of my daughters are also Kappa Delta’s, so I love to love to support Kappa Delta in every way I can. This is just a fun way to do it.”

Matthew Chastain, a sophomore chemistry major from Huntsville, Alabama, challenged himself to run the 5k race.

“I didn't walk at all,” said Chastain. “I was a little unprepared, but after my legs went numb, it was all good.

“My goal is to never walk 5k’s, and I accomplished that today. That just goes to show me that my mental endurance is getting stronger.

I also liked getting sprayed with the chalk; that was pretty fun as well.”

For more information on how to donate or get involved with the child advocacy center, visit pikeregionalcac.com or call (334) 670-0487.