In step with three other northeastern universities, nearly 100 Penn students walked one mile Sunday morning in an effort to raise money for victims of terrorism being treated at the Schneider Children's Medical Center in Israel.
The first annual Walk-a-Thon for Israel fundraiser, organized by the Jewish Heritage Program, succeeded in raising roughly $2,100 in under two hours.
The walk began and ended at 40th and Locust streets, where free Israeli food was available for participants, and the Baal Shem Tov band performed live music.
Blue and white balloons decorated the length of Locust Walk to help direct participating students. Each participant collected money from various sponsors who supported their efforts in the walk. Those who donated $20 or more received a blue event T-shirt.
JHP lead intern Rachel Brenner began working to plan the fundraiser at the end of last year.
"I felt like we needed to educate our members more about Israel," the College senior said. "It sparked my mind that we weren't doing enough on our own."
Those who helped plan and run the event were unsure how successful it would be monetarily or how many participants would sign up. "This is the first time JHP has sponsored a major pro-Israel event, so we have no expectations," JHP Fellow Mia Kandel said the morning of the walk.
"I think it is great showing solidarity for the state of Israel," College senior Gabby Sirner said.
Much contemplation went into choosing the hospital as the sole benefactor of the walk's proceeds.
"We chose the hospital because it represents the noble nature of the conflict," Brenner said. "The hospital treats Palestinians, Jews or any child victim of terror."
College freshman Jack Cohen, a member of PennPac and a participant in the walk-a-thon, felt a unique connection to the cause.
"After having lived in Israel [last year] I felt the impact of terrorism on a very personal level," he said.
An immense amount of effort was also dedicated to formulating the best plan for enticing students to participate.
"The best way to get people out on a Sunday morning would be a social thing," said College senior Courtney Statfeld, a member of the community service committee for JHP. "Terrorism is a big problem worldwide and anything small you can do to help is important. I find giving my time is the easiest and best way I know how."
The walk also took place at the University of Delaware and Binghamton University campuses yesterday and will take place at the University of Pittsburgh on Oct. 13.
At the Penn event, about six students from Temple University participated.
"This was an excellent turnout. I didn't imagine half these people would come," Brenner said. "We have so many people coming from so many groups. It's not just JHP that supports Israel."
Event sponsors included campus organizations such as Penn Hillel, The Lubavitch House and PennPac in addition to various corporate sponsors.
