In July of 2002, 5-year-old Samantha Runnion was abducted from outside her home in Orange County. Her body was later found the next day 50 miles south near Lake Elsinore. Samantha had been sexually assaulted and strangled.
The horrifying events led her mother Erin Runnion to found The Joyful Child Foundation- In Memory of Samantha Runnion, a not for profit organization aimed at preventing child sexual abuse and abduction.
The Joyful Child trains teachers, non-profit partners, and law enforcement agencies to deliver their programs to children and parents in an effort to ensure that every child is exposed to personal safety education and opportunities to practice responses to escape inappropriate behaviors or violence. Their BRAVE Initiative includes everything from an elementary curriculum to workshops for community partners serving high-risk youth.
To support Joyful Child, you can donate, volunteer, and participate in any of the events they hold throughout the year.
Friday Jan 18 there will be a fundraiser shopping day to support the 2nd Annual BRAVE RACE 5k & Joyful Child Fun Run happening on Feb 23. See more about Friday below.
Other important highlights about February's BRAVE RACE include:
- Schools can register as a Team and receive $5 back for every 5K participant
- MUST REGISTER ONLINE BY 1/23 to guarantee your BRAVE Dry-Fit RACE T-Shirt
- This is a professionally timed race for runners as well as a family-friendly event for those who would like to walk, jog, or just come to support.
- Still welcoming businesses to sponsor the event - starting at $250 to be featured on the T-Shirts and materials.
- Family Friendly Expo with local vendors and sponsors including the Orange County Sheriff's Department.
- Concessions available from Community Partner, Bracken's Kitchen Food Truck (and others).
- Be Brave - Be Safe Interactive Preview/Demonstration for families
The race will occur at Aliso Niguel High School where plenty of parking will be provided.
Check out Erin's recently launched podcast "Let's Talk Joy" about lessons learned about finding and protecting joy since losing Samantha here.
Come support an amazing foundation and sign up for the BRAVE RACE!