The Anything is PAULssbile 5k honors the memory of Paul Detweiler, a Gettysburg student and Alpha Phi Omega brother, who passed away from a brain tumor in 2013 (Photo courtesy of Brittany Bondi)
By Phoebe Doscher, Assistant News Editor
On Sunday, April 14, Alpha Phi Omega (APO), the co-ed service fraternity, will be sponsoring the sixth annual Anything is PAULssible 5k. In person registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. in the Attic, and the race starts at 9:30 a.m. on the cross country field. Those not on campus but wanting to contribute to the event can donate to the race online or register for the e-race, which can occur anywhere around the world.
The event was created by Sara Moyer and APO in memory of former Gettysburg College student and APO member Paul Detweiler. Detweiler passed away in 2013 after being diagnosed with a brain tumor during his first year at Gettysburg. The founders fulfilled his dream of holding a 5k race for a community service event and established the Anything is PAULssible 5k.
The 5k raises money for the Paul Detweiler Memorial Scholarship, which is presented to a Gettysburg student who holds true to Detweiler’s values. The scholarship aids its recipient by providing financial assistance toward college tuition.
Brittany Bondi ‘19, a co-chair of the event along with Maureen Courtney ‘19, commented on the uniqueness of the event and fundraiser: “It is an event that has such a reaching impact. It not only serves as a really great service event for the APO brotherhood but also helps whoever receives the scholarship by providing them the financial opportunity to have an incredible education. It is also hugely important for the Detweiler family as well as Paul’s friends who have been able to carry Paul’s memory on and allow him to make the impact on his community that he strived to do himself.”
Bondi and Courtney work alongside co-treasurers Ailema Crooks ‘19 and Alex Shaffer ‘21 to prepare for the race and raise funds. They have been reaching out to various local businesses, inquiring about sponsorship and encouraging the community to attend the race.
A central theme of community is present in the fundraiser and event, according to Bondi.
“I am most looking forward to the sense of community that happens every year at the race,” said Bondi. “Seeing such a passionate and kind group of people come together is indescribable.”
Gettysburg students, community members, and other runners have participated in the Anything is PAULssible 5k for going-on six years (Photo courtesy of Brittany Bondi)
Along with the local community and Gettysburg students, Detweiler’s family attends the annual event and stays actively involved with the fundraiser. Bondi herself has attended the event for the past three years as a member of the committee and has bore witness to the inspiring passion of the community and overall kindness associated with the event.
In order to register for the race, follow the prompts at this link. Those wishing to donate to the scholarship or raise money towards additional race funds can do so through the GoFundMe page.
