The University of Idaho Argonaut

In elementary school you sold gift wrap, or possibly cookies. In high school you asked people to sponsor you for running laps or simply existing. And in college, you hold bake sales or table to “raise awareness.”

But raising money or educating people doesn’t have to be that boring.

The Vandal REPS are sponsoring a Nearly Naked Dash next week to collect donated clothing for the Moscow Sojourners’ Alliance.

Participants can wear as little as they want to run the half-mile course, as long as the vital areas — “swimsuit cover” — are hidden. The event is free, but all participants must donate at least one article of clothing.
On Saturday, the second annual Red Dress Run will take place starting at the Palouse Mall. Runners are encouraged to wear red — specifically, a red dress. Participation is free, but donations will be accepted, with all proceeds going to the Gritman Cardiac Rehabilitation program.

In elementary school you sold gift wrap, or possibly cookies. In high school you asked people to sponsor you for running laps or simply existing. And in college, you hold bake sales or table to “raise awareness.”
But raising money or educating people doesn’t have to be that boring.

The Vandal REPS are sponsoring a Nearly Naked Dash next week to collect donated clothing for the Moscow Sojourners’ Alliance.

Participants can wear as little as they want to run the half-mile course, as long as the vital areas — “swimsuit cover” — are hidden. The event is free, but all participants must donate at least one article of clothing.
On Saturday, the second annual Red Dress Run will take place starting at the Palouse Mall. Runners are encouraged to wear red — specifically, a red dress. Participation is free, but donations will be accepted, with all proceeds going to the Gritman Cardiac Rehabilitation program.

There is a way to raise awareness and money that works: This is it. Instead of relying on your parents’ or coworkers’ sympathy to buy the rest of your fundraiser chocolate, you can actually do something.
Participatory charities allow you to be more involved and see just how your dedication to a cause benefits those in need.
Not everyone can join the Peace Corps or take part in Alternative Spring Break opportunities. Travel can be a logistical nightmare, no matter how much you want to give your time and energy to a cause.

Events like the Red Dress Run and the Nearly Naked Dash give participants the chance to show they want to help without having to leave Moscow. Local programs need your support just as much as the ones that send money and supplies overseas.

Not only will you feel better about yourself but those who donate money on your behalf will feel better about it, too. You aren’t just knocking on their doors asking for money. You are actually doing something to earn it.