Pikeville, Ky –  For the past 11 years, runners have gathered in downtown Pikeville to participate in a 5K to help fight child abuse in eastern Kentucky. And, Saturday morning, the Run for Courage 5K will begin at 9am, with all proceeds going to Judi’s Place for Kids. Organizers say the annual 5K is their largest fundraiser of the year, and plays a big role in helping fund their work.

“Without the community’s support, fundraising and donations, we wouldn’t be able to stay open,” said Pamela Taylor, Assistant Director for Judi’s Place for Kids. “We rely heavily on community support to provide the services to the kids that we provide, which are free of charge.”

This year’s 5K is super hero themed because, through their registration fee, each runner is standing up for abused children. More than 200 runners have already registered, but that number is expected to grow as the week progresses.

“You can register online up until Friday night, and then registration will start at 7am Saturday morning in the City Park and last until 9 when the race will begin,” said Taylor.  But, organizers say while the race is fun and lighthearted, the Judi’s Place for Kids Run for Courage supports a very serious cause.

“Child sexual abuse is mostly what we deal with. And, it’s hard to believe that 350 kids, just in our five county region received services last year,” explains Taylor. “You always think that happens far away from here. But, it’s happening right next door in your community.”

Registration begins Saturday morning at 7am in the Pikeville City Park, and the race will begin at 9.

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