Story by Destinee Marking, Staff writer

A Murray State student is working with Healing Hands International to host a Walk4Water 5K with the goal of raising enough money to sponsor a clean water well in Haiti.

Chantry Carroll, senior nonprofit leadership studies major from Murray, said he decided to organize a 5K run/walk to support the work his parents do as full-time missionaries living in Haiti.

“I had been contemplating organizing a 5K for some time, and I finally made a leap of faith to go ahead and plan the event,” Carroll said.

The Walk4Water will be held on campus April 15 at 10 a.m. Check-in will begin at 9 a.m. on the Carr Health Building lawn.

Carroll’s goal is to raise $7,500 – the cost to drill one clean water well in Haiti.

Jaclyn Whoberry, junior from Louisville, Kentucky, said she will be participating in the event as a runner because she believes in supporting those in need.
“My whole life, I have been blessed with not only basic necessities, but also opportunities that not everyone receives, and I’m very grateful for that,” Whoberry said. “I think it is important to help people whenever the chance is given.”

According to the Healing Hands International website, “On average, a child dies every 26 seconds from water-related illnesses.”

On average, people living in developing countries have to walk four miles to retrieve water to bring home, which is why Walk4Water is roughly that long.

Jacob Littlefield, sophomore from Buckner, Kentucky, will also be participating as a runner.

Littlefield said he is taking this opportunity to bring awareness to people living in developing countries who are not always provided with basic needs, such as clean water.

“I feel compelled to give to something greater than myself, and I believe this opportunity will allow me the chance to give my time and talents to help those who are in need,” Littlefield said.

For those wanting to participate, they can go to the Healing Hands International website to find and register for the Murray State walk. A $20 donation is suggested and participants will receive a T-shirt made by people who live in Haiti.

Sean Judge, the director of Walk4Water, said it is important for individuals to know they can make an impact, even if it does not seem possible.

“People can make a difference,” Judge said. “Every dollar makes a difference.”