The Southern Virginia Child Advocacy Center aims to raise $20,000 through its milestone 20th annual Johnny CASA Race this Saturday, supporting crucial services for children facing abuse or neglect in the region.

The Johnny CASA 5K/5 Miler is returning to Rocky Mount this Saturday for a good cause. That’s because the proceeds go to the Southern Virginia Child Advocacy Center.

The Johnny CASA 5k and 5 Miler, a superhero-themed race returns to downtown Rocky Mount next Saturday. It benefits the Southern Virginia Child Advocacy Center and offers 5K and 5-mile runs, plus a walk for all ages.

Southern Virginia Child Advocacy Center invites the community to participate in the seventeeth annual Johnny CASA 5miler - 5K walk/run. This family focused event offers a choice of a 5 mile run, 3.1 mile run, or 3.1 mile walk race option offering everyone a course they can participate in. The race will be held in uptown Rocky Mount on Saturday, December 17, 2022, with an 9:00 AM start. The funds generated from sponsorships and registration fees support the Southern VA Child Advocacy Center’s services.

ROCKY MOUNT, Va. – Franklin County is seeing a big increase in abuse since the pandemic started. The Southern Virginia Child Advocacy Center says this fiscal year, Franklin County has seen a 23% increase in sexual abuse cases; 125% increase in children witnessing domestic violence; a 200% increase of children experiencing physical abuse; and a 119% increase in number of children being neglected. You can help by participating in the fifteenth annual Johnny CASA Race Event. The funds generated from sponsorships and registration fees support the Southern VA Child Advocacy Center’s services. For registration information or other information regarding the event or volunteering, please visit www.johnnycasa5miler-5kwalk.com, www.facebook.com/runners4kids, call 540-484-5566, or email johnnycasa@southernvacac.org.