The inaugural Phillip’s Cottage 5K fundraiser drew a crowd of approximately 100 participants on April 12 under clear skies, raising more than $15,000 for ongoing renovations at Phillip’s Cottage.
The newly established transitional home, created by Sara McDaniel, provides housing for graduates of the Adult & Teen Challenge program. The residence will allow up to three women and their children to live together for an additional year following program completion.
“Phillip’s Cottage” is named in memory of Phillip Carroll, a longtime Webster Parish educator and pastor known for his devotion to people and his passion for running. Carroll died suddenly on May 30, 2023, while preparing for his morning run. The annual 5K event was created to honor his legacy.
“My dad spent his entire life serving in ministry and the public school system, and I know nothing would make him happier than knowing his work is being carried on beyond the grave,” McDaniel said. “In addition to loving people well, he also loved to run. His birthday is April 15, and my plan is to hold Phillip’s 5K every year around his birthday to support Phillip’s Cottage—combining two things he cared deeply about: people and running.”
Additional community support has contributed to the project’s momentum. The Ladies of 798, a group of pipeline wives who have banded together to meet the needs of the surrounding communities, presented McDaniel with an $11,000 donation. Harrison Paint of Shreveport donated paint for the facility, and Men of Courage recently volunteered their time to paint the building’s exterior.
“I was called to do something for this ministry,” said Men of Courage leader Chris Plants. “We’re going to paint this building, and then we’ll see what else we can do.”
The next Phillip’s Cottage 5K is scheduled for April 11, 2026.
