Sibling students were first to finish; top fundraising team was from Harford Community College.
Under clear blue skies and with perfect temperatures, organizers declared the second annual Holly’s Hope 5K Run, held Saturday, October 10, an unmitigated success. More than 90 runners took part in the race which began and ended at Liriodendron Mansion in Bel Air and meandered along the MA & PA trail. Together participants raised $8,817 to benefit SARC, the non-profit organization that helps victims of domestic violence in the community.
First place runners in the men’s and women’s division were the brother and sister team of Russell and Lydia Davis. Russell, a 14-year old eighth grade student at Fallston Middle School finished the course with a time of 21:03. His sister, an eleventh grade student at Bel Air High School, covered the 5K course in 26:07. Russell had placed third at the inaugural run in 2014 while his other sister Grace had placed first. Lydia volunteered at the event last year. Lydia and Russell both plan to return next year and repeat their performance.
Other awards went to the Top Individual Fundraiser, Tracy Carter, who raised $620.00 using social media; and to the Top Fundraising Team, a crew from Harford Community College made up of employees and spouses including Alexandra Adams, Bill Adams, Melissa Bodrick, Megan Cornett, Deborah Cruise, Nancy Dysard, Leslie Manning, Glenn Rogers and Jennifer Starkey. The team tallied $1,045.00 in funds.
Bel Air resident Ethan Brito organized the first race last year to honor his Aunt Holly, a survivor of domestic violence. Ethan was unable to attend the race this year since he is a Cadet at West Point. Race namesake Holly, a former client of SARC, was on hand at the event and spoke passionately about her gratitude to SARC for supporting her when she was ready to leave a dangerous partner.
Commenting on the success of the race, SARC Chief Executive Officer Luisa Caiazzo says, “The turnout for this year’s race was wonderful. Since domestic violence and abuse affect everyone, not just the victims, it is gratifying to see so many members of the community lend their support.” She adds, “We are grateful for the fundraising efforts of the runners and the contributions from our sponsors and donors. Their time and financial support will help build awareness about the services SARC provides, and give victims like Holly access to the resources they need to build a life free from abuse and fear.”
2015 Holly’s Hope sponsors included Aaron’s; APGFCU; Blue Dot of Maryland; Chick-Fil-A of Constant Friendship and Aberdeen; Ciampaglio Potter, CPA; Decisive Data Systems; Freedom Federal Credit Union; Harford Bank; Harford Community College; Harford’s Heart Magazine; Harford Mutual Insurance; I-95 Magazine; Innovative Insurance Solutions; JigSaw Marketing Solutions; Jones Junction; Northeastern Supply; Oak Contracting; Raymond James Financial; Southern States; The Goddard School; WAMD; and Yogurt Mountain.
About SARC (https://www.sarc-maryland.org/)
Since 1978, SARC (Sexual Assault/Spouse Abuse Resource Center) has provided hope and resources to victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, child abuse, and stalking. Services include a 24-Hour-Helpline, counseling, legal representation, a confidential safe house and community outreach and education.
