Paige Cook – HKRS Killeen, TX
How many seasons have you been a Community Coordinator?
Fall 2024 has been my first season as a Community Coordinator.
Tell us about yourself! What inspired you to join HKRS?
My passion for running has grown tremendously since becoming a mom. Thanks to our jogging stroller, I’ve been able to share the sport with my daughters, and it has brought me a lot of joy. Running has not only improved my physical and mental health,but it has helped me get through some difficult life circumstances, including time away from my husband due to the military. On top of that, I’ve also had the pleasure of watching my oldest daughter benefit from running as she has started showing an interest in the sport.
I learned about HKRS around the same time my three-year-old started wanting to run, but the closest series was a few towns away. Shortly after my husband left for a non-combat deployment last spring, I decided to join HKRS. I wanted to give my daughter the opportunity to participate in the program in our town and have something positive to focus on during the deployment. I knew HKRS would not only benefit my family but also allow us to share the positive benefits running has had on our lives with the community around us, many of whom are going through similar circumstances as my family.
What is your biggest success as a Coordinator so far (or favorite race day moment)?
My biggest success as a Coordinator has been re-launching a successful series in our town after there was no coordinator to take over for a few years. I’ve had to overcome several hurdles, but they have not kept this season from improving each week. Seeing the smiles of each child, parent, volunteer, and sponsor on race day has made everything worth it and fueled my excitement for the rest of the fall series and beyond!
What makes your community special?
Killeen is special because of its diversity and the willingness of its residents to help others. The city is located near the large Army base, Fort Cavazos, so there are not only many military families, but also veterans, veterans’ families, and even people who have moved here from all over the country that are not affiliated with the military. The people here are accustomed to diversity, change, and the challenges faced by military spouses and single parents, so they are quick to offer help, even to those they have just met.
What is some advice you would like to share with fellow Community Coordinators?
My advice to other Community Coordinators is: Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and ask! As someone who has a background in education and not business, I was not prepared for how it would feel the first time someone hung up on me when I was looking for sponsors. But I’m so glad I pushed through the discomfort and started putting myself out there, or I wouldn’t have found the RIGHT yes’s for our series. It’s easy to feel discouraged after hearing no, but you’ll never find the right fit for runners, parents, flyer distributors, volunteers, sponsors, donations, etc., if you don’t ask!
Fun Fact:
My fun fact is my left leg is shorter than my right! I broke my femur when I was two, and it caused my leg bones to grow back together crooked and unevenly. It makes me predisposed to injury as a runner, but it hasn’t been anything orthotics and physical therapy haven’t been able to help yet!
