I was inspired by the compassion of my children, ages 8 and 10 and 12, to help our neighbors in need after the 4th of July floods in Kerr county. After discussing the tragedies as a family, I decided to turn our grief into action. The Run for Relief fundraiser had several track events, raffle items, HTEAO, Kona Ice and several members of the Hays County Sheriff’s Department.

I called Dripping Springs School Board Member and friend, Rob McClelland. He helped me procure the Sycamore Middle School track and a date. My next step was reaching out to local businesses for donations and raffle items. These businesses were incredibly generous, and their donations helped to create an eclectic raffle for each member of the family.

Writing my speech and prayer was honestly the most stressful detail for the fundraiser. My goal was to not say “um” or cry, but I did both! Sarah Werner, lead vocalist at Bannockburn Baptist Church, blessed us with her incredible voice and sang The National Anthem. The Cub Scouts local Pack 4 generously lent an American Flag.

The races kicked off right after The National Anthem! There were 2, 4 and 8 lap races. Winners received gift cards to local restaurants. We even had finisher tape for lap winners to break through. The volunteers from the sheriff’s department did a couple laps with the kids. This was the second time I cried during the fundraiser!

Run for Relief raised almost $4,000 for the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund, supporting urgent relief and long-term rebuilding after the devastating floods. HTEAO and Kona Ice donated all money raised to the fund. Beyond the dollars, it brought the Dripping community together.

The Dripping Springs chapter of National Charity League kindly volunteered from setup to cleanup. This lovely group of teens and their moms were a shining example to the younger children attending. It was a day that I was proud to be a part of.

Events like Run for Relief remind us that in times of crisis, our steps forward, no matter how small, pave the way to healing and hope for communities in need.