IRVINE, Calif.—Walkers, runners, and Orange County residents of all ages will gather Saturday, April 30, for the annual Crime Survivors “Super Hero” 5K Run/Walk Health & Fitness Expo, to be held at Mason Regional Park in Irvine.
The annual event brings together crime victims and survivors, volunteers, law enforcement personnel, and participants from throughout southern California for a day of food, fun, and fitness aimed at engaging the community in becoming advocates for victims’ rights.
Crime Survivors founder and CEO Patricia Wenskunas told The Epoch Times that this will be the first in-person Crime Survivors race since before the pandemic shutdown in 2020, which dramatically impacted the organization’s event and fundraising efforts.
“We are excited to invite the community to come out and have fun, enjoy the expo and complimentary refreshments while helping to support crime survivors,” Wenskunas said.
Wenskunas started the Crime Survivors 5K in 2004 after she survived an attempted murder on April 4, 2002.
“We decided to start our very first run/walk in 2004 as a way to bring the community together to bring awareness, prevention, advocacy, and healing, as well as to give hope and healing to victims and survivors,” Wenskunas said.
“We’re a non-profit, we don’t get government or federal funding, so it’s been a challenge providing services, and sadly, there are more crime victims now than ever before. We are a voice for the voiceless, a voice for change, so this year’s event is very special and important for everyone involved.”
More than 1,500 walkers and runners and over 100 vendors are expected to participate in the race and expo.
Participants can register at the gate starting at 7:00 a.m., with the run/walk starting at 9:00 a.m., immediately following a special guest presentation and traditional survivors’ dove release. This year’s event theme is “Super Heroes”, all attending are encouraged to don their favorite super hero costume.
In addition to the annual 5K, Crime Survivors hosts various events throughout the year including weekly service provider roundtables, victim advocacy programs, and an awards banquet honoring individuals and partner organizations who work year-round to provide the critical support and programs for victims, survivors, and their families.
