Odessa College’s Students in Philanthropy is putting their principles into action this weekend with a Color Fun Run.
The class focuses on teaching students the foundations of philanthropy, equipping them with the skills needed to become effective community leaders.
SIP students spend months reviewing grant applications, selecting worthy causes, and organizing fundraising events to support local non-profit organizations.
SIP President Stephanie Franco is excited to bring the family-friendly event to life and is thrilled to play a part in an organization that unites the Odessa community to bring positive change to those in need.
“By dedicating ourselves to hard work and a passion for making a difference, we can achieve success in supporting our local non-profit organizations who provide valuable services to our community,” Franco said.
Throughout the semester, SIP students have been brainstorming and developing ways to earn the $23,500 they committed to in the fall in order to develop the Color Fun Run.
Sewell Ford and Complex Community Federal Credit Union are among the local sponsors that have generously supported the SIP students’ fundraising efforts.
The Color Fun Run is scheduled to take place at the YMCA track on Dawn Street on Saturday, April 6. Participants will run 5 laps on the 1/3 mile-long track.
Throughout those 1 2/3 miles, runners will be showered with colored chalk that will turn their shirts into a rainbow by the time they pass the finish line.
To the SIP students, the Color Fun Run is more than a fundraiser.
Earlier in the fall semester, the SIP students meticulously reviewed grant applications and selected four local agencies to partner with this semester: Basin Dream Center, Casa De Amigos, Family Promise, and West Texas Gifts of Hope.
Valerie James, a dedicated SIP student, stresses the significance of the upcoming Color Fun Run.
More than just a vibrant display of support for the community, the event will benefit four impactful non-profits.
Reflecting on personal experience, James stresses the incredible power of giving back, citing her childhood with Casa de Amigos and the support her family received from West Texas Gifts of Hope during her father’s battle with cancer.
“It’s about donating more than just money; it’s about giving our time and effort to make a tangible difference,” James said. “Every step we take and every splash of color we share is a symbol of our commitment to uplifting those in need within our community. It’s about the collective effort of individuals coming together to create a brighter, more compassionate world. And that’s something truly beautiful.”
Tickets are $10 when purchased online but will be $15 on the day of the run. Tickets can be purchased at https://studentsphilanthropy.betterworld.org/
The Color Fun Run begins at 10 am on April 6. Check-in for participants opens at 9.
Official event t-shirts, sponsored by CCFCU, are available while supplies last beginning at check-in on Saturday morning.
Donations to Students in Philanthropy can be made on the SIP website: https://studentsphilanthropy.betterworld.org/
