This event was originally created by Mae Eldahshoury.

Grace Athens and the Muslim Student Association at the University of Georgia are partnering to host the Syrian Refugee Crisis 5K Run/Walk to raise awareness for the humanitarian side of the war in Syria. The individuals and families are students, teachers, small business owners, fathers, mothers, grandmothers, grandfathers, and children – people and families who are just like us. This 5K is taking place to raise awareness for their sake – we want to bring attention to their humanity by coming together to run or walk in their honor. The average Syrian refugee who has fled to Europe has walked the length of approximately 700 5Ks. We are asking you to join us as we walk or run this race for those families.

When: Sunday, May 1st at 8:00 am - 11:00 am Where: 125 Smith St Athens, GA 30605 Entry Fees: $15 and $25 with a t-shirt

Check-in time is at 7:00 am!

Register here: http://www.active.com/athens-ga/running/distance-running/syrian-refugee-crisis-run-2016?int

In the world we live in today, it is pretty easy to find a way to make a difference to someone for the better. Locally, there are opportunities to volunteer in shelters for people and animals, tutoring children and adults, donating money and food, and many more. Globally, it can be a bit more difficult to feel like we are making a real difference. By participating in this 5K as a runner, walker, volunteer, or sponsor, you will actually be helping over 11 million people (that’s more than the entire state of Georgia) who have fled their homes and are displaced.

Every penny of your donation/race fee will actually be directly donated to a nongovernmental organization called MercyCorps. This group is working in Syria and nearby camps and communities where Syrian refugees are living in the Middle East and Europe. They provide emergency relief (food, water, shelter) as well as support sustainable change in communities. They focus on “community-led, market-driven” projects led by those living in communities where they work. With displaced Syrians, they are focused on distributing water, food, and supplies, improving shelters, and helping address “long-term emotional and developmental needs of traumatized children and adolescents” (mercycorps.org).