The Salvation Army Anew Center held its sixth annual 5K Anew Run and Walk recently.
The race is sanctioned by U.S.A. Track and Field and is part of the Chautauqua Striders Runner of the Year Series. Proceeds benefit the Salvation Army Anew Center, which offers comprehensive services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse. The event drew 176 runners and walkers and a number of others who were in attendance to volunteer and cheer on the participants.
The hallways of The Salvation Army were decorated with T-shirts designed by child and adult survivors which displayed statistics and expressions of sadness, anger, survival, courage and hope. Once inside the gym, where participants registered for the event, individuals were greeted with music, T-shirts and free refreshments.
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Pictured above are Leif Schmidt and Kylee Witchey-Clements, the overall male and female winners.
"The 5K Run and Walk is an opportunity for the community to join together to show their support,'' said Stacey Tanner, Anew Center program director. "Domestic violence and sexual assault are difficult issues that affect the entire community and The Salvation Army Anew Center provides county-wide programs to assist anyone in need of support."
The Salvation Army offers services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse including:
24-hour hotline and crisis intervention services
Shelter
Advocacy and accompaniment
Case management and counseling
Children and Family Outreach Program
Information and Referrals
Support Groups
Prevention Education
Following the event door prizes and awards were presented to the participants. Many local businesses supported this event by providing monetary donations, gift certificates/baskets, coupons, furniture, food, drinks, discounts, and other supplies to make the event a success.
Awards were presented to:
Overall top female runner: Kylee Witchey-Clements
Overall top male runner: Leif Schmidt
Individual raising the highest amount of pledges was Tim Smeal who raised over $1,000.
Persell Middle School and Team Zonta for the highest amount of group participation.
The Salvation Army operates the only licensed domestic violence program and is the New York State designated Rape Crisis Program.
All services are free and confidential. Anyone in need of information or services can contact the 24-hour hotline at 1-800-252-8748 or 661-3897.