OU students are transforming the day-to-day act of walking into a gesture of the heart in response to Haiti’s need of a helping hand.

The Hearts for Haiti Walk-a-thon, created by OU Haiti Helpers, will take place at 8:30 a.m. Jan. 30 at Crossroads Mall in Oklahoma City.

Founded by OU Haiti Helpers president Jourdan Selim-Gyuton, the walk-a-thon will raise funds and support for the people of Haiti.

“At first I did not know the extent to how bad it really was,” Selim-Guyton said. “But when I saw my mom crying I knew it was serious.”

Each walker will pay a $5 registration fee in order to participate. 100 percent of the proceeds will go to the Red Cross’ Haiti Relief fund, Selim-Guyton said.

According to the Facebook event page, more than 300 participants have registered. The Black Student Association, Medical Ethics and Issues Discussion Panel and Women of Power also will support and participate in the event.

“BSA [The Black Student Association] is really ready to get involved and support the people of Haiti during this crisis,” said Lauren McMillan, organization president and English writing senior.

Groups and individuals are invited to participate in the event. Registration can be completed on the Facebook event page, online at haitihelpers2010.weebly.com or on the day of the event from 7 a.m. until the kickoff of the walk-a-thon.

“I have a feeling there are a lot of people here who want to help, but just don’t know how,” said Megan Powers, international area studies senior, said. “The walk-a-thon is an amazing opportunity.”