Published: 21 January 2021
PHILIPSBURG:---The first Virtual 5k hosted by the Phi Chi Medical Fraternity of the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine raised over $1000 for the Nature Foundation St. Maarten. This event organized by Phi Chi Service Chair Julie Wancik offered prizes for participants to complete a 5-kilometer walk or run on their own time. Fifteen local businesses contributed prizes in an effort to reward participants ranging from gift cards to local restaurants, hour-long massages, and even an introduction to scuba diving courses.
“We are so thankful for the hard work of Ms. Wancik and the 5K committee to put together this event. Due to the restrictions of the COVID19 virus pandemic, it was difficult to host group events throughout the year. Having a virtual 5K was a great way to promote the foundation and help motivate the community to get out into nature and stay healthy. This event would also not have been a success without the generous support of the many local businesses that donated prizes for runners. We can’t express how very thankful we are that so many chose to support us even in these difficult times,” said Leslie Hickerson Educational Outreach officer at the Nature Foundation St. Maarten.