On Saturday, December 8^th, the 10th annual Hot Chocolate Run was held in Northampton, Mass. to benefit the nonprofit organization Safe Passage. Over twenty members of the Williston community supported the cause.

Christa Talbot, Williston’s Associate Director of Admissions and the boys cross country coach, said, “It was a great event for all of us to come together to support a great cause. The spirit and energy of our runners as well as the event made it a terrific morning.”

This year, the event raised almost $300,000, more than the run has ever raised before. The run/walk sold out more than a month in advance, with 5,500 registered participants. Safe Passage, founded in 1977, works to help victims of domestic violence.

After the race, members of the Williston community converged to enjoy the hot chocolate given to all finishers. The drink was especially appreciated on a day when the temperature was just above freezing.

As Williston senior and cross country team captain Christian Knapp says, “Running is all too often a solitary activity. Running with a group of friends totally changes that. The Hot Chocolate Run’s atmosphere made the 5k more of a party than a chore.”