The Joint College Alumni Association of Southern United States (JCCAA) Community Care Committee and Sports Committee held the inaugural March for Outreach Spring Duathlon (Bike/Run) at Houston Memorial Park on Saturday morning, May 11th.
The purpose of the event was to promote fitness and community outreach, as well as charitable giving through the duathlon activities. Participants were encouraged to bring family and friends, and there were prizes for sponsors. Donors who contributed $100 received a JCCAA T-shirt, those who donated $500 received a JCCAA polo shirt and prizes, while donations of $1000 or more received a JCCAA polo shirt, prizes, and recognition at the annual meeting.
The Community Care Committee was established with the goal of fostering mutual understanding, communication, and care among different ethnic groups in mainstream society and the community. Over the six years since its establishment, the committee has engaged in various activities including Thanksgiving food donations, Christmas clothing and toy giveaways to underprivileged families, and collaboration with the local West Chase Rotary Club to provide scholarships to impoverished students in the Alief ISD. Last year, the committee introduced two new initiatives: Upchieve, which helps underprivileged children with academic difficulties and college applications, and Star of Hope Homeless Shelter, which provides aid and sponsorship to Houston’s homeless population. Volunteers also rotate monthly to provide food donations and catering services at the Women’s Shelter.
JCCAA Chairman and Sports Committee Director Ken Bin Hsu, and Community Care Committee Chairperson Xiao Ling Xu, expressed their gratitude to the generous donors and participants of the duathlon and hike. The event raised a total of $6000, with significant contributions from donors including $1000 from the Zhang, Fan, and Zhu families, and $500 from individuals such as Yi Zhong He, Jia Feng Xie, Xiao Ling Xu, Zhi Zhong Liu/Pei Guan Qiu. Many other members also generously donated $100 each.
Each participant of the duathlon received a vibrant yellow backpack donated by former chairman Yi Zhong He, containing bottled water, bread, snacks, energy bars, badges, and more. The teams were divided into three groups – cyclists starting with a 10-mile ride, long-distance walkers covering 3 miles, and short-distance walkers covering 1 mile – all setting off simultaneously. The route was adorned with wildflowers, gentle breezes, and a sense of spring in the air. Along the shaded paths, the early morning exercisers were in high spirits, creating a tranquil and enjoyable atmosphere. Approximately an hour later, as the walkers returned to the starting point, everyone expressed joy and satisfaction, noting the meaningful combination of charity, fitness, and fun. They made plans to participate again next year, eager to continue the tradition.