Run to support the YWCA of Northwest Georgia’s Peace, Love & Dignity 5K Run and 1 Mile “Skirt” Run on Sunday, October 25 in Kennesaw, Georgia. This run/walk brings back the spirit of the 70’s to support the YWCA‘s programs for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. The race starts at 7 a.m. at Kennesaw City Hall and ends up at Adams Park. Visit www.peacelovedignity5k.org for more information or sign up on www.active.com.

Funds generated from this event will provide continued programs and services for women and children affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. The YWCA of Northwest Georgia operates the only domestic violence shelter in Cobb County, and provides counseling and support for sexual assault and domestic violence survivors.

Participants can win prizes by designing and running in their most creative “skirt” for the 1 mile skirt run. “Skirts are completely optional to participate in the event. It is a way for men, women or children to support the efforts of stopping violence against women,” said Holly Comer, YWCA CEO and Executive Director.

Registration for the 5K event is $20 until 10/25, $25 thereafter; and for the 1 mile event is $15 until 10/25, $20 thereafter. Runners may participate in both events in the Combo Run (5K + 1-mile) for $30 until 10/25; $35 thereafter. Non-runners may support the YWCA as a Phantom Runner for $30, and shirts will be mailed following the race.

Peace level sponsors are First Landmark Bank, Georgia Power, and Mobilized Fuels. Love level sponsors are Ashton Staffing and Cobb EMC. Dignity Level Sponsors are Amy & Tammy’s Box Lunch Company; Big Peach Running Company; Brock, Clay, Calhoun & Rogers LLC; Coca-Cola Enterprises; Furgo Mundo; Gas South; Legacy Promotions; Marietta Daily Journal; Sewn Away Custom Draperies & Bedding; E. Smith Heating & Air Conditioning; Starbucks; Team Honda Lithia Springs; Thrifty Nickel Newspapers; Vinings Bank; WellStar Health System, and The Whitlock Inn.

October is designated as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. One in three American women report being physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some time in their lives.

In 2008, the YWCA answered approximately 3,000 crisis calls, served 293 women and children in emergency shelter and transitional housing, provided over 1,500 hours of counseling at no charge, and helped more than 1,000 people get protective orders.

The vision of the YWCA of Northwest Georgia, established in 1917, is to create a community free of domestic violence and sexual assault. Serving primarily Cherokee, Cobb and Paulding counties, the organization provides programs and services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. For details on the YWCA’s programs and services, call 770-427-2902, visit www.ywcanwga.com, or to reach the 24-hour crisis line call 770-427-3390.

Volunteers and sponsors are needed for these events. Please contact Shelley Schumaker, Development Director with the YWCA of Northwest Georgia, at (770) 423-3562 or sschumaker@ywcanwga.com if you would like information.

Media contacts:

Shelley Schumaker, 770-423-3562, sschumaker@ywcanwga.com

Kristi Storey, 770-423-3599, kstorey@ywcanwga.com

Attachment YWCA NW GA 5K Run Fact Sheet