Teens Make a Run at Aid for Uganda
WAKE FOREST - Teenagers' interests tend to focus on such diversions as
iPods, computer games and the latest social activity. But about 75 students in the Wake Forest-Rolesville High School Key Club lately have had a much more global vision.
These students have been organizing a race to raise awareness and funds for a vocational school in Kaihura, Uganda. The Steps for Schools 5K
Road Race will be held Saturday.
Austin Shaw, a junior, came up with the idea and proposed it to the Key
Club. "I thought we could spread awareness about the educational crisis in
Uganda and help provide something that would allow them to have a better life after they graduate," said the 17-year-old Wake Forest resident.
The club has asked race registrants to bring a used or new children's book for a library opening at the vocational school. Donated funds will go towards students' expenses at the school, where they pay tuition. Paige Hamp, a member of Shaw's church, will be personally handing donations to the school's director on their next mission trip to
Uganda.
The club has received more than 30 early registrations, but they are hoping for more than 150 runners and walkers for the event. Organizing the race was an extensive endeavor for the club.
"We made a course route, which we presented to the Wake Forest Police
Department," Shaw explained. "They approved it, and then we sent a letter to the State Department of Transportation because the route uses state operated roads. They approved our proposal, too. "Then we began the process of gathering sponsors who paid for the T-shirts, insurance and other necessary expenditures for the race. It's been a long process."
The name "Steps for Schools" was coined by Key Club member Jessie Ammons, inspired by the long walk Kaihura students take to and from the vocational school everyday. Key Club members said that helping youth their own age across the globe helped motivate them.
"It's been a daily task to plan the event, and some people were surprised that youth were planning the race," said Christopher Dall, a 17-year-old junior. He helped out by seeking support from community sponsors.
"It was a big undertaking," Dall said, "so at first, there wasn't a huge amount of enthusiasm. But as we've gotten closer and others have seen that we could do it, more people have jumped in." The students received support from 15 sponsors in the Wake Forest community.
Shaw said he has learned a great deal from spearheading this event.
"I've gained a sense of fulfillment in doing it and knowing that we're making a difference by bringing awareness and encouraging others to do the same," he said.
The students hope to motivate other youth to benefit the global community.
"It just takes determination and persistence," Shaw said. "And if you're willing to go the extra mile, set your mind to it, you can accomplish anything. I'm a firm believer in that."
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