Get your sneakers laced up! From Nov. 15-20, Monmouth University’s Shadow PR firm will be hosting a Virtual 5K to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation defines the disease as a genetic condition that affects the lungs’ ability to breathe over time and causes frequent lung infections. These infections take rise from the build-up of thick, sticky mucus in the lungs. This is a rare and incurable condition. People with Cystic Fibrosis typically will live into their 40s or 50s, especially since medicine and treatments are advancing.
This is a cause that is near to the hearts of those involved in PRSSA. Rowan University created this event for each Public Relations Student Society of America chapter of New Jersey in order to raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “This is their first year holding this campaign because one of their past presidents passed away from Cystic Fibrosis,” said Courtney Ur, a senior communication student and President of PRSSA.
Ur and the rest of the team at Shadow PR are hoping for a great turnout. Leah Frain, who serves as the Vice President of PRSSA said, “We hope to generate a lot of participation in order to spread awareness and raise funds for an amazing cause. These funds will go towards research to fight this disease and to help hopefully find a cure one day.”
Nicole Benwell, Director of Events for PRSSA, said, “Even through social distancing protocols, we are happy to still have an event that can get the Monmouth community involved.”
For students and community members looking to participate, registration information will be sent out this week. Ur noted that although there is a $5 minimum donation to register, anyone can contribute more to the foundation.
Ur said that students and staff can find information about the event on the Experience Monmouth app. However, this event will be spreading far beyond the borders of West Long Branch. “We opened it up to people outside Monmouth as well, and since it’s virtual we have people all over the country who want to sign up,” said Ur.
Being that this event is taking place over a period of several days, participants can take part on their own time. Participants will be emailed running bibs to wear while running or walking. They are encouraged to post a picture using the hashtag #5kRunForCF when finished.
PHOTO COURTESY of Monmouth University
