12-04-2025
5K in East Peoria raises money to help victims of abuse
EAST PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — With April being Sexual Assault Awareness Month, area residents showed up in droves to say 'I run with survivors.'
The Center for Prevention of Abuse held its 8th annual I Run with Survivors 5K and Walk. People from all over central Illinois showed to run — or walk — to help those who have been affected.
Proceeds go to the center to help those who have been victims of all types of abuse, said Carol Merna, the center's CEO.
'We have a crisis hotline that's available 24 hours a day seven days a week for all survivors of abuse,' she said.
The event, which was emceed by WMBD's very own Rebecca Brumfield, took place at 8 a.m. on Saturday, April 12, at the Levee District in East Peoria. More than 200 people participated in the race and walk.
Guillermo Rolon won 1st overall in the 5K with a time of 17:13, a 5:33-minute pace over the 3.1-mile course. Sandi DeFord took home the title for the women with a time of 22:55, which was a 7:23 pace.
The event was a way for people from all over to show up and show support for those who have experienced abuse.
'It just means a lot to help an organization that helps kids, as well as a lot of people in the area that are in need,' said participant Nathan Young.
Young, an avid runner who mainly does half and full marathons, said this is about his fifth year doing the 5K held by the Center for Prevention of Abuse. He has gotten either first or second in the last couple of years.
Participants all received a shirt as well as a gift bag with a Chick-fil-A coupon among other goodies.
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