More AU students should participate in the American Classic 5K, which will take place this Saturday. It costs $15 to enter and will benefit Habitat for Humanity.
However, the contribution may be negatively impacted by the high cost of using the Metropolitan Police Department. Last year, even though the race was on AU's campus, MPD's services cost almost $6,000. If it weren't for this expense, more money could be donated to Habitat for Humanity.
It's a shame that MPD doesn't give special treatment to charitable events. It would be nice to see some police officers helping out at events that are helping others out without charging so much.
However, AU students shouldn't let this discourage them. In fact, participating in the 5K is even more important so that American Classic can raise the most money possible to help families in need.
Roll out of bed early on a Saturday for once. This is an excellent way to contribute something to a great charity, even for people who don't like to run. Participants can also walk, so there's no reason not to grab a group of friends, walk the 3.1 miles and then get a hearty TDR breakfast.
Also, it's not a competition to be taken too seriously. Even the person who finishes last has succeeded in helping out a good cause.
Another benefit are the prizes given out; and the T-shirts that each participant receives.
For those who were involved last year, it's important to know that the course has been changed. Instead of the awful loop around the AU campus, the course will go off-campus, around 47th Street.
