Fredonia-Moccasin Community Unites in Heartfelt “Dash for Nash” Service Project

By Lumen Ihong

This year’s annual service project of the Fredonia-Moccasin Unified School District was more than just a
community event—it was an unforgettable show of love, unity, and support. Titled “Dash for Nash,” the
school community came together to raise funds for a cause that truly touches the heart: helping a fifth-
grade student with his kidney surgery and recovery expenses.

Rather than the usual service efforts, the district took a lasting step by choosing a project that would
directly impact a student’s life. The team organized a fun and family-friendly Color Run, adding a creative
twist by turning it into a “Read and Run” for families with young children who are beginning to read.
Participants enjoyed running, reading, and helping—all in one go.

Even Nashton, who had just recently undergone surgery, joined the run alongside his classmates. With a
bright smile on his face, he ran not just with his feet, but with the strength of a community behind him.
Surrounded by friends, teachers, and his entire family, Nashton experienced firsthand the power of unity
and support. It was a moment that touched everyone’s hearts—a reminder that no one has to face
challenges alone when a village stands beside them.

A total of 56 runners participated in the race, proudly wearing white shirts—sold at the event for five
dollars—that quickly transformed into colorful keepsakes by the end of the run. At the finish line,
community members were welcomed with a lively bake sale hosted by volunteers, which added to the
spirit of giving.

The runners brought both joy and competitive spirit to the event. Elder Scanlon took first place in the male
category with a time of 27:05, followed by Landon Smothers at 28:37, and Elder Waddoups at 29:12. In
the female division, Tami Tisi led with 32:13, followed by Melodie Mule at 40:09, and Tylee Johnson at
42:24. For the youth division, Zak Wilmarth came in first with a time of 38:12, while Nathan Ashley and
Jude Rosander both crossed the finish line at 43:06, earning second and third place respectively.
Adding to the festivities, the 7th and 8th grade students hosted chalk-throwing stations along the
course—joined by enthusiastic staff members and teachers who helped shower runners in color, laughter,
and cheer. The event was also made possible through the dedicated support of local churches, including
members of the Baptist Church, Catholic Church, Trinity Church, United Church of Kanab, and the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Kanab and Fredonia. Honey’s Jubilee generously donated
water for the runners, and Eric Simms contributed the money he earned from his musical performance
that day.

The community’s generosity was overwhelming. The bake sale raised $350, while race registration
brought in $925. Donation jars placed in local businesses collected $165. Score International contributed
$100, and the Allen Family Memorial Fund added $160. Private donations reached $150, the sophomore
class gave $25, and other contributions totaled $45. Altogether, the event raised just under $2,000.
“Dash for Nash” wasn’t just a run. It was a race filled with heart, hope, and the powerful message that
supporting one another creates a lasting difference—one step, one laugh, one donation at a time.

This event reminds us that helping—even across borders—can make a meaningful difference to one of
our own community members. One family, one student at a time, we lift each other up. We support and
love each student in Fredonia Schools!