On Saturday, October 20, The American Refugee Committee (ARC) hosted the Run to Unite at Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis, which was attended by more than 400 people. At this run/walk event, community members came to show support, share food, see performances by young artists and dancers, and share in culture together. Money was raised for the I am a Star Campaign, which goes towards critical funds for lifesaving care.
This was no ordinary race with a set distance decided beforehand. The length of the race was decided on race day! For every dollar that was donated, one link was added to a paper chain. On race day, there were 57,935 links on the paper chain, which stretched out to be 3.62 miles long! By the end, the I am a Star Campaign reached their $100,000 fundraising goal.
A very special guest attended the run/walk event. Abdi Bile of Las Anod, who was the 1987 World Champion in the 1500 meter dash, spoke at the race, participated in the kids’ run, and posed for pictures with runners and walkers.
Ms. Javitch, who ran in the race, was lucky enough to take a picture with Abdi Bile and tell him all about the children in her classroom.
Hopefully next year a group representing Banaadir Academy will participate in Run to Unite !
