Written by Abbigail Crocker//Graphic provided by Zeta Rho
Zeta Rho is hosting the Shamrock Shuffle 5K March 15 to raise money for the Arkansas Crisis Center. The Arkansas Crisis Center is a non-profit organization that operates as a suicide hotline, offering support to individuals facing mental health challenges or those concerned about others. They respond to calls daily, working to save lives and contribute to long-term safety and well-being.
Zeta Rho service co-director Jayden Ellerman, a junior, said she has personal experience with friends who struggle with mental disorders.
“I have had multiple people in our lives who have struggled with mental disorders or have contemplated taking their lives, and we know that many people on campus have had similar experiences,” Ellerman said. “Because of this, this program is extremely important to us, and we want to bring to light just how much good that they do. Especially since ACS is a nonprofit organization, we know that any donation will be helpful to their program and overall goal.”
ACS is founded on hope and providing hope to struggling teens and adults. Their goal is make an impact in decreasing Arkansas’ rising suicide rates.
“Supporting their mission aligns with values of service and offering hope in suffering,” Zeta Rho service co-director Astryd Marcum, a junior, said.
This event is open to anyone and all are welcome to join.
Freshman Athenn Stewart said her decision to participate in the race was connected to her passion for mental health issues.
“Mental health has always been very important to me,” Stewart said. “My mom is a high school teacher and through her experiences in her work, I saw how many teens are affected by mental health issues and how important it is to focus on maintaining your mental health. When I found out that this 5K supported the Arkansas Crisis Center, I was stoked to be able to contribute in any way I could!”
The race will begin at 9 a.m. on Harding’s campus, and the start and finish lines are located behind the McInteer Bible Building. The entry fee is $20 through March 14, but registration will also be available on race day for $25. Since March 15 falls just before St. Patrick’s Day, participants are highly encouraged to wear their best green attire. Event t-shirts are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Over $750 has been raised by the more than 85 race participants.
