As part of a project for Naperville North’s entrepreneurship class, a group of students organized a charity run called Racing Hearts 5k.

The race took place last Saturday, April 11 at the Lisle Park District and helped raise $4,845 for the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Edward Hospital.

The Family Room is a charity that provides a place within the pediatric unit of the hospital for families to eat, sleep and relax during their stay.

The money raised will pay for 96 days of meals for the charity, according to Ellie McGee, a junior on the team that organized the race.

“I have been volunteering for the Ronald McDonald Family Room for a few years now so it’s a cause that is really close to my heart,” McGee said. “I thought, ‘what better way to promote this cause than by hosting an event for it to raise money?’”

According to Entrepreneurship teacher Carliss Harris, the idea for the project was unique for the class.

“The 5k run is something that’s never been done before in our entrepreneurship program,” Harris said. “It’s done totally outside of school, and they’re donating 50 percent to charity which is pretty awesome.”

The team of students has worked hard to organize the event ever since the class began, according to McGee.

“This was a lot more work than I even expected,” McGee said. “From getting the start and finish lines, medals, waters, snacks and even a few police officers, it has been a lot of work, but it’s been worth it to see this all come together.”

Sponsors of the event included Rocket Imaging, Sonoma Consulting, Bri’Zan Couture, CG3 Photography and Glam & Glitz.

Junior Kim Deichstetter participated in the 5k after hearing about it from her classmates.

“I got a couple friends, and we went as a big group,” Deichstetter said. “It seemed like everyone was happy to be there, and it was a beautiful day. The whole thing was really well done.”

McGee said she enjoyed the experience.

“My team has been so supportive, and the response has been absolutely awesome,” McGee said. “I’ve learned a lot about business, and I think all of my employees and team members have as well.”