The Pasco-Hernando State College Social and Human Services Club has earned a reputation for “going the distance” for students and community members in need. So it makes sense that the club’s primary fundraiser is a 5K event, to take place next on the North Campus in Brooksville, 11415 Ponce de Leon Blvd., on Saturday, April 23.
Race proceeds benefit PHSC social and human services students, members of a community service club that initially pledged to help students in need, and that has extended their mission to encompass the entire community.
“We collect donations for kids who need food and shelter at the college. We also make Easter baskets for the Boys and Girls Club, we help out Dawn Center (domestic violence and sexual assault center), services for veterans, and support other help agencies in the county,” explained Eddie Williams, Ed.D, LMHC, NCC, MCAP, HS-BCP Program Director/Assistant Professor, Human Services. Indeed, the club completed work on a Habitat for Humanity house in Pasco, have made dinners at Hernando facilities that help the homeless and those struggling with addiction and mental illness, and over the holidays spearheaded massive donations of food, clothes and gifts for Metropolitan Ministries.
Also started in conjunction with the Boys and Girls Club was a PHSC tradition now known as the Family Spring Egg Hunt. Co-hosted by the National Association of Mental Illness, the Family Spring Egg Hunt will be celebrated from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, April 9, on the Spring Hill Campus of PHSC. This vivid springtime celebration will feature an egg hunt, the Kona Ice Truck, music, and refreshments plus a special appearance from a certain acclaimed bunny. “We started this tradition for the children served by the Boys and Girls Club, and also open it to all of the children of the community,” said Williams. “It’s a family event where kids find eggs filled with candy.”
Beyond its festive spirit, this springtime festivity embodies the spirit of the Pasco-Hernando State College Social and Human Services Club. Williams stated, “We want to let people know that PHSC helps the community in which we all live and work. We want to strengthen the connection.”
On the day of the 5K race, the campus will open at 6:30 am. Check-in will take place by 8 am, giving runners time to pick up goodie bags, sign waivers and receive race bib numbers. The race will begin at 8:30 am. Race registration is $25 for adults, $15 for PHSC students, and kids can participate for free. Register at phsc.edu/about/events. For more information, please contact Eddie Williams, Ed.D., program director/associate professor, social and human services, at 352-340-4865.
