Letter: Run NK5K in Memory of Marissa Hayward

The is less than 2 weeks away and as a family who has seen the good that comes from this event; we thought this a wonderful opportunity to share our own experience. 

Our daughter Marissa, , had a scholarship established in her name through the NK5K. Proceeds from this walk/race benefit students in NK schools, supporting activities and providing scholarships to graduating seniors. , to come together in celebration of Marissa’s life as well as give back to this town. Friends and family participated not only in RI but in California, Florida, Wyoming, Hawaii, NY, North Carolina, VT, even Alaska and St. Croix. .

The scholarship created in Marissa’s name is non-traditional, intended to support a young adult to have a life adventure, to give back to others.  As a result of last year’s NK5K and the team organized in Marissa’s name, two students received $1,000 scholarships; both chose to grab ahold of life and make a positive difference.  One recipient traveled to Peru to work in a local village; the other is spending a semester working with children at a school for the deaf in Fiji. As a family it was very gratifying to have our child be part of life moving forward, to be able to give back to a community that has given us so much.

This town is remarkable, full of people willing to give of themselves to help others.  The NK5K has established itself as an organization committed to supporting students in the town’s schools.  We invite you to share this event with us again on September 8, to appreciate how we are all connected, to support another young adult to make life amazing.

One of the nice things about this event is you don’t have to be a runner.  All ages and abilities are welcome to participate. For information please go to www.nk5k.net.  If you would like to participate in Marissa’s name, please register as a TEAM MEMBER and choose “Team Marissa.”

Sue & Kent Hayward