Phi Delta Epsilon is hosting its first ever Rush and Rally 1K fundraiser to benefit Children’s Miracle Network.

The name “Rush and Rally” comes from last year’s event, Gold Rush 5k, named for the gold and red colors of Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. This year, it is called a “Rush and Rally” because it is more than just running. This event will also include a speaker talking about CMNH and a local band: io Ravine. io Ravine is a myth and folk blues band.  

CMNH is PhiDE’s philanthropy partner and is a network of children’s hospitals that treat children suffering from various illnesses, including but not limited to trauma, cancer, cystic fibrosis and more. The money raised through Rush and Rally will go to Kentucky Children’s Hospital, the local CMNH.

Rush and Rally will be on Oct. 11, in honor of National Stand For The Kids Day. This is a day where people across the country stand up for the kids who are in or have benefited from CMNH.  The power hour for eastern time is noon.

The race will be a 1K as opposed to the former 5K to keep the event closer to campus. This will make it more convenient for other UK students to attend. On campus construction also makes a 5L distance difficult.

“We started this as a way to get more involved with the students and other members of the Lexington community,” Autumn L. Conger, president of Phi Delta Epsilon Kentucky Gamma Chapter, said.

“It fills me with such pride to see our chapter come together and put on events such as these,” Conger said. “We are doing more than trying to come together and have fun. We are attempting to make a difference in our local community. This event is a chance for us to grow as a chapter, grow with our community, and to support sick children that need our help.”

Conger said she loves all aspects of PhiDe, but especially the philanthropy. She said those involved can both have fun and benefit the CMNH.

PhiDE is a premedical chapter of a co-ed medical fraternity. They strive to not only become doctors but to create lifestyles on integrity. They live by the motto, “Facta Non Verba, Deeds Not Words.” The members believe it is an important for future physicians to be active in and help their local communities, and the PhiDE fraternity works to ensure that their members, as future physicians, will continue both living by their motto and being involved in their community. 

Last year’s Gold Rush 5K raised almost $2,000 and PhiDE is hoping Rush and Rally will exceed that amount. It begins at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 11 in the field outside Bowmen’s Den. To register to run, visit https://goo.gl/c1oAA2 or contact [email protected].