Student Research Symposium Program Portal: Submission #249

Abstract The general Floridian public lacks even basic knowledge of epilepsy, despite its undeniable prevalence in that area. This is worrisome as where there is a lack of awareness, there is also minimal amounts of support. Indeed, this is reflective of how support programs differ in Florida compared to other parts of the United States. Appearing in conjunction, Florida has a low amount of community instigated awareness events. These allow for people to band together in support of a common cause; the fundamental cornerstone of advocacy. By making changes to increase efforts in that state, it becomes possible to create tangible and positive change. What begins with community engagement can lead to larger changes.
The experiment was a cyclic action research modeled intervention. Its goal was to foster community awareness and financial support for a local program that uplifts people with disabilities. The event conducted was a 2k Fun Run located in Panama City Beach, Fl. It was hosted through my nonprofit organization and all collected donations were given to help people with special needs. The procedure included establishing a nonprofit organization, acquiring all necessary permits, advertising, and establishing the final event logistics.
Measurements of the event’s effectiveness were specifically found in the amount of community involvement and the collected donation amounts. Data collection is of a mixed methods format. Quantitative data included donations totaling $2139.53 with 50-60 participants at the run. Qualitative data included personal observations of joy from participants surmised from the witnessed hugs, high fives and cheering.