5th Annual 5k Walk/Run of Our Lady of Mercy Academy
"Stay Strong, Breathe Deep"
Saturday, October 22, 2011
In Memory of Mary Jo Lorello
M.J. Lorello gifted OLMA with her
quick wit and passion for life as she began teaching here in 2004. As a high
school and college athlete she excelled in basketball, softball and lacrosse. MJ's love of sports and health education guided her to a
career in teaching. Her many gifts and great faith made her a special teacher,
coach, colleague and friend. MJ's humility allowed
people to see her true gifts of compassion, kindness and generosity. She was
always willing to put others first and to be present to the students at all
times. Beyond her coaching and classroom teaching, Mary Jo taught all who met
her about courage and faith. As a health teacher who never smoked, being
diagnosed with lung cancer was quite a shock. Many people would have been angry
and bitter, while Mary Jo focused on prayer and getting better, never letting
the disease get the better of her. Everyday she had a smile on her face, a joke
to tell and comment about the NY Mets. Privately, she prayed the rosary and
sought comfort in our Blessed Virgin Mary. On more than one occasion she would
refer to St. Matthew's Gospel when Jesus comments, "Can any of you by worrying
add a single moment to your life span?" (Mt.6:27) This is how MJ lived her life
to the end. Yes, she was concerned about those she would leave behind but she
also knew she would always be with us. MJ believed in the Circle of Mercy and
was proud to be a part of it.
Since 1928, Our Lady of Mercy Academy has been teaching
young women to show compassion for others, exhibit courage and loyalty, love
those around them, and share their gifts with others. MJ Lorello
embodied these characteristics both in the classroom and on the playing field.
It is only fitting that the OLMA 5k Walk/Run is held each year in her memory.
The OLMA 5k Walk/Run is a not only a fun event for all
students and their families to participate in, but also an integral part of funding
for various student programs. The proceeds from the 5K help to fund programs
such as the Senior Retreat, NYC Museum trips, CSH DNA Workshop and Dance
Conferences. It also contributes funds to purchase smartboards,
projectors, cameras and computers that support many of the OLMA Clubs and
Athletic Teams. A more detailed list can be found in the 5K brochure.
How can I register
for the event and what is the registration fee?
Students and their families can register via the 5K
registration brochure or on-line. Registration forms can be downloaded from the
OLMA website (www.olma.org) or you can
register on-line at http://www.firstgiving.com/olma.
The registration fee is $25. Each participant receives a race t-shirt on the
morning of the event.
Where is the run
held?
The 5K Walk/Run begins and ends at OLMA.
Does the race provide
awards or prizes?
Awards are presented to the top overall male and female
runners as well as the top 3 males and females in each age group. New this year, awards will be given for
top Senior, Junior, Sophomore and Freshman runner.
What is this year's fundraising
goal?
The 2011 Goal is $50,000!
When we reach our goal, students will be given a day of
school off during the year.
How do the students
raise money by participating in the race?
Each student is encouraged to contact friends/family who
will sponsor them for running in the race. The girls can do this individually
or by putting teams together of friends or teammates. In order to maximize
their potential, the students can set-up their own fundraising page at http://www.firstgiving.com/olma. This
website provides an easy way for the students to communicate with relatives and
friends who may wish to support them in the event.
What are the funds
collected used for?
The funds raised help OLMA support many of its student
programs. The student programs that are funded include Spiritual Ministries,
Academic Programs, Athletic Teams and OLMA Clubs. These funds go right back to
the students in order to enhance their OLMA education.
How can I help if I
am unable to enter the race?
Donations are always appreciated and can be made via the
registration form or on-line.
Volunteers are welcome too! We are always in need of
friendly and able individuals. If you are interested in volunteering for the
following please e-mail Mrs. Renee Fabus at rfabus1@yahoo.com.
- Oct 3
Carnival Lunch 10am-1pm
- Oct 21 Pasta Lunch 10am-1pm
- Oct 21 Set-up 5pm-7pm
- Oct
22 Registration 7:30am-9:30am
- Refreshments 8:00am-11:00am
- Clean-up
10:00am-11:30am
)