The gift of shoes

The Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) collected pairs of shoes on Feb. 23 at the Physical Activities Center as part of an effort to break a world record while providing shoes to those in need. 

The shoes were donated to Soles Four Souls.  In return, the organization plans to donate 3,500 pairs of new shoes to Evansville Christian Life Center, The Dream Center, Chandler United Methodist Church and The Spencer County School Corporation.

The goal was to collect 10,000 pairs of shoes to set a Guinness World Record for The Longest Shoe Chain. 

Run of Luck will also be using the donated shoes in a 7K race on March 13. 

Christy Dixon, a cross country runner, was one athlete who donated shoes.

“Donating shoes is a great idea that a lot of people do not think of when they are tired of their old shoes,” Dixon said. “It is an easy way to give back to the surrounding community.”

She also said that the cross country team uses four to five pairs a year.

“I have probably collected 30 to 40 pairs alone,” she said.

Any style of shoe was accepted during the shoe drive.

“We donated athletic shoes, dress shoes, sandals and any type of shoe that wasn't too broken down,” Dixon said.

Women's Basketball Assistant Coach Randa Dallas also donated two pairs of shoes. 

“Anytime that the community can get together and raise funds for a good cause, I think it's wonderful,” Dallas said.

The SAAC had a goal of collecting 100 pairs of shoes.

“As athletes, we have so many shoes that we've worn out or can't wear,” said SAAC President Sara Loete. “We're trying to give back and give them shoes so that they can give brand new shoes to the community.”