The Arizona Run for COVID-19

Three cross country running friends talked about what they could do to help others who may not be as fortunate as they are. Xavier student Jamie Stelnik, and Brophy students Jackson Moran and Charlie Fallon put their heads together (virtually) and decided to create a virtual run to benefit St. Vincent de Paul.

“There are people who are forgotten during the panic of the pandemic. We wanted a way to raise money to help them, so we created The Arizona Run for COVID-19,” says Stelnik.

She explains how it works. An individual goes out and runs one mile or a 5k, then sends in his or her time. Each runner solicits friends and family to contribute. The trio of students will keep a leaderboard of times and award prizes to the fastest female and male runners. In addition, there will be a raffle in which everyone can participate.

One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to St. Vincent DePaul’s COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund. Donations support to-go meals from St. Vincent de Paul’s charity dining rooms and food boxes for families in need. Donations also help with rent and utility assistance for individuals missing paychecks, telemedicine for the uninsured, hygiene kits and shelter.

“Some people consider this time a stay-at-home vacation,” say Moran and Fallon. “It’s totally the opposite for many people In fact, this is the time when they need more help than ever. We don’t want people suffering, especially knowing we can do something about it. Plus, the running community is tight-knot in Phoenix, so we know they will want to help.”

To sign up for the run, CLICK HERE.