Just above freezing temperatures and a brisk wind didn't stop students and local residents from participating in Alpha Phi Omega's first annual 5K run and walk Saturday afternoon.

"It really isn't that bad out," environmental biology senior Amber Johnson said. "Once you start running, you really can't feel the cold."

The vice president of service for the fraternity said the main reason for the race was to start an Alpha Phi Omega annual event.

"We want to start a tradition," Johnson said.

The Chase for Charity was developed by MSU's service fraternity to promote community fellowship and raise money for the people and organizations they represent.

The event will benefit two members of the fraternity. One was diagnosed with cancer and another had to have emergency surgery. All proceeds from the event will assist them in their recoveries.

The event was originally planned for Nov. 10, but the university changed the date because of a conflict with an MSU football game.

Donations of $15 were accepted for early registration. The cost increased to $20 for participants who registered the day of the race.

About 150 people were expected to come out, but only 50 people participated.

"Our main goal is to have it be well organized," Johnson said. "Hopefully word of mouth will help it get bigger. I hope we can have it earlier in the year, too."

Participants competed in six different age groups, beginning at 14. Winners in each group received gift certificates from local businesses such as Meijer and Best Buy.

The race's route went through East complex, West Circle and around Brody complexes. Participants could in-line skate, bike, run and walk. One organization member gave another alternative.

"If you want to ride a unicycle, you can ride a unicycle," child development junior Becky Martin said. "I'll probably Rollerblade though."

Other participants competed with a more traditional style.

Zoology junior Audra Baltzell decided to walk the route.

"I don't do the running thing," she said.