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5K Memorial Run Impacts Thousands
Only a few short months ago, we shared the incredible story of Captain Chad Reed of Dixie County Florida, who was killed in the line of duty at age 33. He left behind his wife, two young sons, and a tightly knit, small-town community, who loved him dearly — but that is not all.
Reed’s selfless dedication to family, friends, and people in need was made even more evident by his desire to provide clean drinking water to the millions of children around the world. Only two weeks before his tragic death, Reed attended a concert by Children of the World International Children’s Choir and was inspired to raise $15,000 to provide a deep bore well — a contribution that would provide 1,000 people clean water for 20 years.
Shortly after his death, Reed’s friends and family banded together to see that his $15,000 goal was accomplished, creating a 5K Run/Walk event to raise clean water awareness. Weeks before the Captain Chad Reed Memorial 5K took place, more than $9,000 dollars had already been raised through word of mouth and the inspiring vision of one faithful man.
We are excited to report that more than $28,000 was raised at the 5K event! This figure almost doubled Reed’s original goal and is impacting thousands — from the small Floridian community he served daily to a remote village on the other side of the world.
In the words of Denise Williams-Butler, a friend of Reed’s and an organizer for the 5K, “Organizations like [causelife] need to be pushed to the forefront.” Butler went on to explain how Reed’s commitment to raising funds for the well sparked her awareness of the worldwide water crisis. She is now advocating the cause to the entire Dixie County community.
To view photos from the day of the 5K Memorial Run click here.
The Captain Chad Reed 5K Memorial Run is just one of many fundraising events being hosted by churches, schools, and organizations which are passionate about providing clean water. Join the cause today and share the story of one of the world’s most commonly overlooked tragedies, the water crisis.
Click here to see how you can get involved.