Only 5k in Pennsylvania for Child Sexual Abuse Survivors

By Maureen Cislo
Justice4PAKids
April 20, 2015

http://www.justice4pakids.org/

Justice4pakids is the only organization in the state of Pennsylvania to host a 5k/fun run for survivors of child sexual abuse. Slated for Saturday May 2 on the Chester Valley Trail in Exton, the family friendly event features an easy flat course for all runners or walkers.

“This is a day of hope, a day of empowerment, a day to be free—walking away from your predator and walking into a new future,” says Maureen Cislo, President of Justice4pakids.

This is more than a run against child sexual abuse- this is a day to honor survivors of child sexual abuse while bringing greater awareness to this health crises.

“1 in 4 girls and 1 in 5 boys will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday. In 90% of reported cases, the child knows their perpetrator,” says Robert Nelson, a survivor and Chair of the Justice4pakids Board of Directors.

Many survivors will be coming out to participate and will receive a special certificate for completing the walk/run. DJ Danny Madonna’s Superior Sound will spin some fun tunes and a meaningful song will be played and dedicated towards survivors. Runners and walkers will also be able to write a message on their back of their T-shirt such as: “I am walking to support CSA survivor Joan.”

As one survivor who is signed up to walk sums it up: “This is amazing! You are providing a safe place to come together and have a positive impact in a bad situation. It has given me a place to have positive thoughts and be hopeful. This is not always easy - even after 35+ years. My story has always been so personal and I have kept it very much to myself and shared only when necessary. I feel much more empowered now and accepted. In this group, I am looked at as a survivor NOT a victim. This is very important.”

Join in the 3nd Annual 5K Run and 1Mile Walk on Saturday, May 2, at Chester Valley Trail Entrance, 140 Church Farm Lane, Exton. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Timed race starts at 8 a.m. sharp. $25 fee on race day. Prizes for First, Second & Third Place! “Keep Your Body Safe” coloring books will be handed out to all children for free.

Justice4pakids is a 501 c-3 whose mission is to stop child sexual abuse by raising awareness through its education and prevention programs. Find out more at: www.justice4pakids.org