When the Mark Bartels, the founding Director of USP, moved to the US to take the position of Executive Director of Uganda Partners, he wanted to connect USP and UCU HC alumni to Uganda Partners—the U.S. nonprofit that raises funds and builds partnerships for Uganda Christian University.

What would be a fun way to connect USP and UCU alumni with present-day Honors College that is relevant for students and manageable for participants around the world?

What about a 5K for participants around the world—any type of mobility, individual or with a group, documenting it with photos, and joining in spirit with the 5K event that is happening at UCU?

The vision:
To connect USP and UCU alumni around the world in a collaborative, community-building way that will result in a scholarship fund that can be distributed to Honors College students in times of crisis or need.

Implementation:
a. Every year the weekend before the Rwanda trip for USP students, USP and Honors College will participate in an event/race that will encourage present students to associate the Global 5K with UCU and Honors College

b. Uganda Partners organization will organize the communication and administration of the Global 5K among alumni around the world.

Results:
a. The scholarship funds are sent to the Honors College Committee who will make decisions about which HC students need assistance throughout the year.
b. By wearing the t-shirts and participating in the social media blitz, participants are also sharing the love of Uganda Partners and Uganda Christian University—a center of excellence in the heart of Africa.

In the first three years, the Global 5K has been successful because of amazing volunteers who have helped coordinate the event at Uganda Christian University as well helping to coordinate the event around the world.

We have been so grateful for USP and UCU alumni who have showed up in support, in photos, in humor and in community. This is indeed the biggest gift we’ve received from you all in your participation—we have been humbled by your support for us as we continue to build a network of supporters for Uganda Christian University. We are still working on recording and sharing all the stories of students who have benefited from Global 5K funds–they have their own testimonies of gratitude for your support and participation.

While the origins of the event stem from USP and HC alumni, we have been beyond impressed with the dozens of fellow missionaries and colleagues who have joined with us in supporting the Global5K.

While everyone who has lived and worked at UCU has confidence in the difference that UCU is making in East Africa, we also have friends of friends who have participated in the Global 5K. We are motivated and inspired by all who have taken part in the Global5K since its origins—grateful that you are trusting Uganda Partners to use your generosity for transformation through higher education in East Africa!

Thank you to all who have and all who will join us in Uganda Partners Global 5K!