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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Chapel Hill chapter.

Running is a very beneficial activity.  It is one of the best ways to get in shape.  It can improve your health, it can relieve stress, and it can raise money for a good cause.

On Saturday, March 17, the members of Zeta Tau Alpha will host their annual Franklin 5K.  This year marks the 23rd year of the race, which garners support from the entire Chapel Hill community.  The race is Zeta Tau Alpha’s biggest and most successful philanthropy event of the year.  It benefits their national philanthropy, breast cancer research and awareness.

The race benefits Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the Arc of Orange County, the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation, and Ashton’s Angels.  Last year, the 5K raised over $40,000 with over 800 runners participating.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure is a leader in breast cancer research and awareness.  The proceeds from the 5K that benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure are allocated to vital research.

The members of Zeta Tau Alpha work throughout the year with the Arc of Orange County.  This organization provides education and advocacy for persons with developmental disabilities.  The Arc is an outstanding organization that provides quality support for these individuals and allows them to participate in all areas of the community.

The UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center treats cancer patients and conducts valuable research.  The Lineberger Center is an innovative research facility that searches for new, more effective treatments.

The Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation provides support for the various philanthropic services of Zeta Tau Alpha.

Ashton’s Angels is a charity dedicated to increasing childhood cancer awareness.  It helps children who have been diagnosed with childhood cancer and their families.  This organization is one that is dear to the members of Zeta Tau Alpha.  It was created in honor of a former member who faced a form of childhood cancer with unwavering strength.

UNC organizations and clubs hold fundraisers, benefits, dinners and races to support their philanthropies and different organizations in need.  The substantial donations and contributions garnered from these events help support these organizations and are vital to their success.  Breast cancer research and awareness is an important cause that needs support.  

As women, we need to contribute in any way possible to find a cure for this horrible disease.  If interested in running, participants can register online.  With the $15 race fee, runners will receive a T-shirt and a timing chip.  There will also be a party after the race in Bynum Circle with food and performances from local groups.  The top runners will receive their prizes at the party.

Packet pickup begins at 8:00 a.m. at Bynum Circle on the UNC-CH campus and the race begins at 9:30 a.m.  Participants can walk or run the race.  If running isn’t your thing, any donations are accepted and appreciated, and T-shirts can be bought from any member of Zeta Tau Alpha.

Sources:
http://www.unczta.com
Race Day Registration (photo): UNC ZTA, http://www.ztaunc.com/photos/4153/normal/registration.jpg?1311739677
Runners (photo): UNC ZTA, http://www.ztaunc.com/photos/4152/normal/running.jpg?1311739660
Franklin 5K Signs (photo): UNC ZTA http://www.ztaunc.com/photos/4150/normal/Franklin_5K_signs.jpg?1311739101

Sophomore, PR major at UNC