Elementary students make charitable event out of fun run

It’s a perfect day for a run, and that’s just what some Langston Hughes and Quail Run elementary students did at DeVictor Park Friday morning.

“We decided to have a fun run as part of a community outreach program and our wellness program with a neighboring school that also has a running club,” said Langston Hughes Marathon Club committee member Carrie Mandigo.

But the exercise was not the most important part of the event.

“We decided to collect canned food for ECKAN (East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corporation) and old athletic shoes for the Nike Reuse a Shoe program. They use the shoes and recycle them into various flooring for athletic fields,” Mandigo said.

Parent Gilbert Karuga was running with his daughter, Ruth.

“I think it’s a brilliant idea. We loved it. It’s a nice way of getting kids involved in the community and having them know their role in our society like we have in Lawrence,” Karuga said.

Fourth-grader Kara Krannawitter said she came for the company and the community service.

“It makes me feel good that I’m helping other kids or other people that don’t have very much food.”