Gardner-Webb Counseling Center Sponsors Everybody Knows Somebody 5K on March 5

Annual Event Helps Students Battling Eating Disorders

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of individuals seeking help for eating disorders has increased dramatically. The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) reports that calls to its helpline rose by 107 percent. On the Gardner-Webb University campus, students battling eating disorders receive help from the Counseling Center and the annual fundraiser, Everybody Knows Somebody 5k Walk/Run. 

“When the campus and the community participate in this event, it allows us to better support our students in need,” shared GWU Director of Counseling Services Stephanie Allen. “A lot of medical insurances don’t cover eating disorder treatment. This event allows us to at least cover eating disorder assessments for our students whose insurance will not cover it.”

This year’s run will be on March 5, beginning at 9 a.m. Packet pickup will be in front of Tucker Student Center from 7 to 8:45 a.m. Register for the 5k by filling out this form; registration closes on March 3 at 11:59 p.m.

Those who can’t participate may make a donation here.

For more information, please contact Counselor Megan Peek at [email protected] or (704) 406-4103

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 48 hours prior to the event. Please call (704) 406-4253 or email [email protected] with your request. 

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.