Superhero run supports abused, neglected children, Guardian ad Litem program
By Meagan McGone
mmcgone@hometownnewsol.com
BREVARD -- Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and other comic book heroes star in tales of bravery, leadership and compassion.
But, outside of the comic books, superheroes stay more behind-the-scenes, representing children before the court, social services and the community.
These heroes are called Guardian ad Litems.
"All children have the right to a safe, loving home, but, each year in our community, hundreds of children are abused or neglected by their families," said Patricia Williams, recruitment coordinator and community liaison for the Guardian ad Litem 18th Circuit, in a press release. "Guardian ad Litem volunteers refuse to let these children be without a voice. Instead, a Guardian ad Litem provides encouragement, stability and hope as these children navigate the child welfare and court systems."
This year, the 2nd Annual Superhero Run at the Space Coast Stadium in Viera will benefit the Guardian ad Litem program in Brevard.
The race kicks off at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 12. Registration and packet pickup begins at 7 a.m. An awards' ceremony will follow the race.
Last year, the 5K race, designed for all fitness levels, attracted more than 400 runners.
In addition to benefitting the Guardian ad Litem program through raising awareness about the project, the event will also give aid to Friends of Children of Brevard, a nonprofit that provides necessary supplies to abused, neglected and abandoned children, such as bicycles, shoes and beds.
"Friends of Children of Brevard provides many things that may sound commonplace to the average person, but these things are life-changing to children who don't have anything," Ms. Williams said.
This year, she hopes to have more people in attendance than last year's event.
Ms. Williams said participants can simply wear running clothes, or don a cape in true superhero fashion to honor the guardians.
"Guardian ad Litem volunteers are superheroes for the hundreds of child victims served by Guardian ad Litem programs each year," she said.
The Guardian ad Litem's 2nd Annual Superhero Run costs $20 for adults who preregister, and $25 for adults who register on the day of the event.
For more information, visit www.galsuperherorun.com.