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Running a 5K can be difficult for many, but running it with no shoes on? That’s a feat only some can say they have accomplished.

Saturday, Oct. 4 at Bachman Lake, Dallas citizens gathered to run the 4th annual Barefoot Run benefiting Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls. Adults, teens and children came to help raise funds to help Buckner International with its cause.

“We collect new shoes and socks through churches, businesses and organizations all over the United States,” said Ashley Williamson, the Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls Manager.

Buckner has delivered almost 3 million pairs of shoes to children in need.

“Shoes are just a great way to not only protect children;s feet from parasites and scrapes and cuts that they can get walking on a really harsh terrain,” said Williamson.

The lake might not have had the roughest terrain, but runners got the barefoot experience. They could learn more about the organization and even donate new shoes for children in 76 countries.

Food, fun and live entertainment were also provided.

Although many runners did wear shoes, they were all focused on the reason for participating.

“I think it’s a small way to kind of get involved in a bigger cause,” said Adam Traczek, a runner.”I’ve done it for four years and its kind of become a personal tradition for me.

Those who did decide to run barefoot helped raise awareness for orphans in need of shoes. And the winner of the race was one of those runners who decided to opt out of running shoes for the day.