Sixth Annual Resolution Run Raises funds for a Habitat House

St. Helena, SC -- The weather could not have been better for all of the participants who came out for the Sixth Annual Resolution Run on Dataw Island. Runners and walkers enjoyed a scenic 3.1 mile course marshaled by Habitat For Humanity volunteers who also provided Weary Wagon assistance for those needing a lift to the finish line. Adding to the festivities was Torie the Clown, who acted as cheerleader and support for the 222 walkers, runners and dogs who finished the course in just under one hour.

Many of the registered runners have returned each year because they enjoy the event, the hospitality and the chance to support Habitat of the Lowcountry.

Barbara Krakehl, the Race Director and a Dataw resident, said "I am always pleased with the number of volunteers who help us make this event run smoothly while also raising funds for building houses. For the second year, we have incorporated a “New Year, New You” health fair to help focus attention on health, support groups and active lifestyles for all ages. This, along with the run/walk has become a great way to keep a resolution and spend time with friends and family for a very worthy cause."

Gathering at Dataw’s Community Center, participants shared their reasons for getting to the starting line, and were as varied as the field of participants: New Year’s resolutions, personal goals, supporting friends or just to get outside and enjoy the weather. However, one cause was the true winner of the race, Lowcountry Habitat for Humanity.

Participation this year almost doubled the previous year’s race. Because of this overwhelming amount of support, the second Dataw-sponsored Habitat house is able to be completed.

A welcomed addition of this year’s race was the Dataw Dog Walker’s Club. Linda King organized a special division for dog walkers and all four legged friends were entered into a raffle for a doggie treat basket.

Music and supporters greeted the participants energetically as they crossed the finish line. After the race, kids enjoyed the playground overlooking the Jenkins Creek and attendees were treated to refreshments, fruit and snacks in the gazebo. Awards were given out to the top finishers overall and also in various age groups. Chet Houston, Executive Director of Lowcountry Habitat, thanked all the participants, volunteers, sponsors, Dataw security and staff, for coming together and achieving a record turnout this year.

Habitat for Humanity was founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety and that decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all. Habitat ReStores were developed to provide Habitat affiliates with another income stream for building houses while providing a place where still useful building materials and supplies can be recycled and gently-used home furnishings can be resold to new owners reducing the burden on local landfills. Funds are also contributed from events like the Resolution Run.

“Habitat for Humanity holds a very dear spot in my heart, and I am grateful for this opportunity to serve,” said event chair and Dataw Island member Barbara Krakehl. “The Resolution Run is a really fun way to raise the necessary monetary support and bring awareness to the organization. In fact, we have recruited several volunteers and donors through the event.”

Krakehl added “I am grateful to our sponsors and our volunteers for their continued support, without whom the event would not be possible.”

Thank you everyone who volunteered, walked or ran -- what a great way to start the new year!

For more information about LowCountry Habitat for Humanity, please call the Habitat office at (843) 522-3500.

Visit the Dataw Island Facebook Page to view photos of this event!