By Shelby Lang
Picture yourself crossing the finish line, with Thetas in tutus and cheering fans lining the sidewalks, and contributing to two local nonprofit organizations in the process. Talk about a feel-good moment.
Texas A&M University’s chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority is hosting the 31st Annual Rock the CASA 5K on April 9, starting at 9am at the Theta Sorority house, located at 1503 Athens Drive in College Station. The race benefits Theta’s two philanthropies, Scotty’s House and Voices for Children.
Scotty’s House is a nonprofit organization that works as an advocate for abused and neglected children through professional and compassionate help. Scotty’s House ensures the children have proper medical testing as well as transfers from the court system to their forever home, according to the Theta 5K Promotions Chairman C
arley English.
Voices for Children is the Brazos Valley chapter of the national nonprofit organization Court Appointed Special Advocates. CASA also works with volunteers to help children going through the court system and to speak on their behalf. CASA strives to minimalize the number of times an abused child has to tell their story as it could be traumatizing for some children. CASA volunteers help keep the children at ease throughout the court system process and act as a link so neither the child nor the child’s information is lost in the process.
Both Scotty’s House and Voices for Children work towards getting the children out of foster care and into safe, permanent, and nurturing homes. They do everything possible to keep sibling sets together, give hope when options seem to be running thin, and most importantly provide consistent faces during unstable and emotional times.
Last year, the Theta sisters expected to raise $80,000, but exceeded their goal and raised $97,000, says English. The goal this year is to raise $85,000. Approximately 1,300 participants are expected, according to English.
Along with the race itself, Rock the CASA will also provide music, food, and a silent auction with items ranging from weekend getaways to sporting events, or even puppies. All of the proceeds from the event benefit Scotty’s House and Voices for Children.
To register for the race or to make a donation, visit theta5k.webs.com. Pre-registration before April 9 is $15 per person, which includes the race, a t-shirt, and food. Registration is available the day of the event from 7:30am to 8:30am for $25. The race begins at 9am and chip timing is available.
