The Fayetteville Running Club, together with The Child Advocacy Center and community partners, is organizing the annual "Be Their Voice 5k" event at Methodist University. The event, scheduled for Jan. 27th at 8 a.m., aims to raise awareness and combat the harrowing issue of human trafficking, especially during National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

Partnering with W.O.R.T.H. Court, Fayetteville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Methodist University, and the Child Advocacy Center, the 5k run/walk is a family-friendly event that underscores the significance of combating human trafficking. The event is a pivotal initiative to engage the community in the fight against this pressing issue.

Pre-race packet pickup is scheduled for Jan. 26th at The Coffee Scene Prince Charles in downtown Fayetteville from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. On race day, the schedule unfolds as follows:

• 8 a.m.: Race day registration and packet pickup opens/food trucks open
• 8:45 a.m.: Packet pickup closes
• 9 a.m.: 5k Starts
• 10:30 a.m.: Race course closes
• 11 a.m.: Food trucks close

Participants can register for the 5k for $30, with a price increase to $35 after Jan. 25th. Each registrant receives a commemorative t-shirt to mark the occasion. Further race details and registration information can be found by calling the Child Advocacy Center at 910-486-9700 or by visiting cacfaync.org.

The Child Advocacy Center, a cornerstone in the fight against child trafficking, offers comprehensive services to children and families in need. It serves as a platform where children can feel safe and heard and share their experiences in a secure environment. Additionally, the center is critical in nurturing the Multi-Disciplinary Team process by facilitating ongoing professional education and collaboration among various agencies involved in child welfare and protection.

Mr. Shawn Wussow, a representative from the Fayetteville Running Club, emphasized the significance of community engagement in combating human trafficking.

"Events like the Be Their Voice 5k serve as a platform to rally our community in the fight against human trafficking. It's about raising awareness, fostering unity, and channeling our collective efforts to address this pressing issue,” he stated.

The Be Their Voice 5k event stands as a beacon of hope and solidarity in the fight against human trafficking, showcasing the power of community engagement and advocacy. As the event approaches, the Fayetteville community stands united in pursuing justice and protection for the vulnerable.