Race to Zero: Running Toward Hope and Healing

As summer winds down and the days shift between warmth and cool breezes, it’s the perfect season to gather outdoors in community.

This month, one race offers not just a chance to move together, but to move a mission forward. The Zacharias Center (ZCenter) will host its annual Race to Zero, a family-friendly 5K run and 1-mile walk dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual violence and advancing prevention education. The event kicks off on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at Independence Grove Forest Preserve (16400 Buckley Rd., Libertyville, IL), rain or shine.

This year’s race will be emceed by WGN-TV reporter Christine Flores, who brings her passion for community storytelling and advocacy to the stage.

Proceeds from Race to Zero directly fund ZCenter’s free, trauma-informed services, advocacy, and prevention education across Lake and Northeastern Cook Counties.

For more than 40 years, ZCenter has been a pillar of hope and healing, working tirelessly to end sexual assault and abuse. With strong community partnerships and unwavering support, the organization serves nearly 30,000 Northern Illinois residents each year from two locations -Gurnee and Skokie.

“Race to Zero is not just about running or walking—it’s about showing up for survivors, celebrating resilience, and mobilizing our community to end systemic sexual violence,” says Sandy T. Williams, CEO of ZCenter. “Every step we take together sends a powerful message: survivors are not alone, and their voices matter. This event reminds us that healing is possible, prevention is essential, and change happens when communities unite around compassion and action. Whether you’re running the 5K, walking with your family, or cheering from the sidelines, your presence helps break down stigma and builds a future where sexual violence has no place.”

ZCenter invites individuals, families, and corporate teams to participate, sponsor, and stand together for survivors.

Race Day Schedule:

• 8:00 a.m. – Registration Opens
• 9:00 a.m. – 5K Run & 1-Mile Walk Begin
• 10:00 a.m. – Post-Race Activities & Celebration

Registration:

• $35 per person (5K, includes T-shirt)
• $35 per family (1-Mile Walk, for survivors & families)
• Participants raising $100+ receive a ZCenter race bag

To register for the run or walk, visit https://bit.ly/ZCenterRacetoZero25. For more information about the event or ZCenter’s mission, please visit www.zcenter.org.

About Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center (ZCenter)
Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center (ZCenter) is dedicated to providing comprehensive, client-centered services to survivors of sexual assault and abuse—free of charge and in a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment. Guided by a commitment to equality and empowerment, ZCenter works in partnership with survivors to aid in their healing journey. Beyond direct services which include individual and group counseling for adults and children, ZCenter is an active force in the community, advocating for survivors and working to end systemic sexual violence. Through trauma-informed care, advocacy, and prevention education, the organization mobilizes individuals and communities to create meaningful change.