Students, faculty, and staff at Texas A&M University – Commerce are literally stripping themselves down to raise awareness about homelessness.
Phi Pi Delta, the Health and Human Performance Club at A&M-Commerce, is holding the event, Boxers and Boyshorts 2 Mile Fun Run, on Nov. 16 at 5:30 p.m., beginning at the East Parking Lot of the football stadium at A&M Commerce. All participants must be current students or faculty of A&M-Commerce and must present their Campus ID at the event.
For Community Outreach Chair for Phi Pi Delta Davina Keith – who also coordinated the event – this cause hits close to home. Keith, who is a freshman human performance major, has experienced what it’s like to be homeless.
“I grew up homeless, eight years of my life,” Keith said. “A lot of clothes and shelters were limited for me. I wanted a way to spread the word to the college community. This means a lot to me. I know what it is to be without, and I think it’s great for everyone to come together and donate and actually do something for a good cause and have fun at the same time.”
Rather than charging a fee to participate in the run, participants are required to donate one item from a list of donations, including new or gently worn clothing, toiletries – in the original package – such as toothbrushes, shampoo, and soap, canned goods and other non-perishable items, and household items such as blankets and towels. All donations made will be given to the Salvation Army in Greenville, Texas.
“I am excited for this event,” Keith said. “I am glad it is finally coming together and so many people are so supportive of doing this for a good cause. I thought there was going to be a lot of negativity, with the area we are in and all of the churches.”
To participate, you can get a form from any member of Phi Pi Delta or at the field house. Registration and donations must be submitted together and will be accepted in the field house until 4:30 p.m. on the day of the event.