The 5k Rescue Run, which will be held on October 4th, 2014 fundraises for the Rapha House, an organization that benefits girls impacted by sexual trafficking. The impacts of human trafficking are centralized around Asia and the Pacific region, and affect 27 million women per year.

“The Rescue Run is a local event that helps people connect with an issue that is both national and global. Human trafficking is an issue that is so hidden that sometimes it is hard for people to get involved or to find a way to have an impact, and the Rescue Run gives community members that care about human trafficking and sexual exploitation an opportunity,” Melanie, the co-director of the run said.

Melanie helps to organize and set up for race day. The Rescue Run, which started in Iowa City in 2012, has raised over $20,000 to support the Rapha House.The Rapha House, which provides safe houses, medical care and therapy for victims of child trafficking and sexual exploitation, addresses the overwhelming statistics of trafficking. This race has also raised awareness in Iowa City for sexual exploitation and trafficking.

The race is held on Saturday, October 4th at the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area.  The registration fee ranges from $10-$30 and all of the proceeds go to the Rapha House.

Melanie expects to see 200-250 people racing along with a team of volunteers this year and encourages all to participate.

“I would encourage people to run the race because it is, one, a great way to get out and have an impact on a very important issue,” Melanie said, “and it’s also just a great way to meet other like-minded people as well in your own community.”