By Shannon Wright
What began as a way to honor a beloved father has grown into a community effort to help women and children start over.
“My dad loved others more well and deeply than anyone I ever knew,” said Sara McDaniel. “He lived his life in a way that pointed people to Jesus.”
Phillip Carroll, a longtime runner, passed away unexpectedly in the summer of 2023. In his memory, McDaniel helped create a race that not only celebrates his legacy but also supports a cause close to her heart, helping women rebuild their lives.
Now in its second year, the Phillip’s Cottage 5K and Fun Run will be held on Saturday, April 25.
McDaniel said she hopes the event will continue to grow as the community rallies around the mission.
“We want to help these girls alter the course of their lives and break generational curses,” she said.
All proceeds from the race will benefit Phillip’s Cottage, the nonprofit home that provides transitional housing for women with children who have graduated from Louisiana Adult & Teen Challenge.
Funds raised help support the families living there, maintain the house and property, and cover operational expenses throughout the year.
The race will begin and end at Phillip’s Cottage located at 217 W. Union Street in Minden.
The Fun Run will start at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K at 8:15 a.m.
Last year’s event drew about 100 runners, and organizers hope to double that number this year as awareness of the mission grows.
Registration for the race is $25 through April 7 and includes a race t-shirt. After April 7, the registration fee increases to $30, though shirts cannot be guaranteed for late registrants.
Those who wish to support the cause without participating can register as a “Sleep-In Supporter.” For a $30 donation by April 7, supporters will receive a race t-shirt mailed to the address they provide.
Race packets and t-shirts can be picked up at Phillip’s Cottage on Thursday, April 23 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, April 24 from 4 to 6 p.m., or on race day beginning at 7 a.m.
Cash prizes will be awarded to the first-place overall male and female finishers in the 5K race, and trophies will be presented to first- and second-place finishers in each age division.
Event organizers note that strollers, wagons, baby joggers and other hand-pushed or pulled vehicles will be allowed on the course but must remain at a walking pace. Inline skates, roller skates and running with baby strollers are not permitted on the course in accordance with RRCA regulations.
Community members are encouraged to participate, volunteer or donate as a way to support families in transition while keeping Carroll’s legacy of loving others well alive in Minden.
For more information or to register visit the website at https://runsignup.com/Race/LA/Minden/PhillipSCottageK
