SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. – Court Appointed Special Advocates — C.A.S.A. OF San Bernardino County will be hosting their 12th Annual “Heart of a Hero Run.
The run is planned for Saturday, April 13, 2019, from 8:30-12:30 p.m. at California State University San Bernardino, located at 5500 University Parkway. The run will begin at 9:30 a.m. in front of the Pfau Library, and has been purposefully organized during the month of April, which is Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month.
There are over 5,000 children who currently live in foster care in San Bernardino County. C.A.S.A. mentors and advocates provide support through mentorship to children in foster care who have a history of abuse and neglect. The children have been removed from their homes and families for their own safety in most cases. “Sadly, many become lost, confused, sad, angry, depressed, and alone,” said a C.A.S.A. representative. “But it doesn’t have to be that way. Every day CASA volunteers make a difference in the lives of hundreds of youth by being there for the tough days, the not so good days, the in between days, and the good days.”
Currently, there are around 220 foster youth on the waitlist to find a caring adult mentor and advocate. The goal for 2019 is to recruit 100 new volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates for foster children throughout San Bernardino County. Proceeds for the run will go toward recruitment, training, and supervision of new volunteers to help reach their recruiting goal. “We encourage all community members to come out and learn more about becoming a volunteer and how they can help a foster child in need.”
Registration is only $10 for adult participants and $5 for children. If you can not attend, you can also donate by texting HERORUN to 71777. Runners can attend dressed in their favorite superhero costume or Alter Ego. A free lunch will be provided for the first 300 registrants by In-N-Out Burger. There will be other great entertainment including a Kids Zone, carnival games, costume contest and entertainment for the entire family. “ Even if you don’t run, you can enjoy all of the family friendly activities. Come and enjoy a nice day out.”
