For the first time, the school’s National Honor Society and Student Government Association sponsored a 5k color run. The race took place on the morning of April 30, and included a one mile fun run for children 12 and under.

Senior Rachel Sorensen organized the event, from recruiting volunteers to finding sponsors willing to donate to the race.

The “Color for a Cause” race was a fund-raiser for 2015 Manteo graduate, Ginger Shackelford.  Shackelford was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in November of last year.  Her treatment ended shortly before the race took place and all proceeds went to her medical bills.

“The color run was something we really wanted to do last year, but it fell through, so we pushed for it this year and supporting Ginger made it even better,” Sorensen said. “We were able to make the run go towards a good cause and it turned out to be a huge success.”

The race began in the school parking lot, where color powder was first thrown.  The course went through areas surrounding the school where volunteers threw more color on the runners throughout the race.  There were volunteers at the end of the race to throw color as participants ran through the balloon arch.

“I think the color run was a great idea for a fund-raiser because everybody had fun and we were able to support Ginger,” sophomore Josie Fry said.

The race had a huge turnout. Over 150  people participated in the 5k and more than 25 children ran in the fun run.  Students, staff, parents and community members came out to support the race.  Participants came out early the morning of the race, whether they were running or walking it.

“It was super fun and a great way to support Ginger and her family; I had a great time,” sophomore Donovan Twyne said.

Due to the huge turnout, the generous sponsors and the community support, the race raised more money than organizers expected it to. Local business helped out through sponsorships, donating food and cutting organizers a break on the t-shirts.  Dunkin’ Donuts provided food at the finish line and Island Xpertees helped to provide t-shirts for participants as well as the volunteers.

In the end, the NHS and SGA were able to give Shackelford over $4,500 for her medical expenses.

“The color run went much better than we ever thought it would and everyone had a good time,” National Honor Society advisor Mike Phelan said.  “It went off without a hitch and we were able to raise a lot money for Ginger.”

Since the race was such a success, NHS and SGA hope to make “Color for a Cause” an annual fund-raiser for years to come.