Run For Your Life - And For the Children

If you see a whole bunch of people running in the streets of Fairfax this weekend - worry not. The smiles on their faces will be evidence enough that they're having a good time.

This Saturday, May 4, marks the 2013 Fairfax Run for the Children, to benefit CASA.

"The Run is CASA of Fairfax’s big fundraising and awareness-raising event, to support the 150-plus CASA volunteers who advocate for abused and neglected children in Fairfax," said CASA's Elisa Kosarin. "Runners have given the race high marks in past years for being a well-run, high-energy race on a fun course."

Kosarin said Liberty Middle School in Fairfax Station has stepped up in a big way this year by organizing a team of students, teachers, and parents to participate in the run.

In addition, a former CASA child, Najiba Hlemi, will also be on hand to talk about how her CASA volunteer helped her through some rough times.

"Najiba is now in her twenties, a college graduate, and working full-time," Kosarin said. "I have heard her speak about CASA before and she is quite moving."

The race itself has a few new features to speak of this year, as well, organizers say:

• In 2013, the previous 10k course will be replaced by a fast-paced 8k, featuring fewer turns and hills. It’s an opportunity to clock your personal best! The popular 3K course remains unchanged.

• Registration is easier than ever this year. Register online without a processing fee!

According to The Run's website, CASA is inching close to its fundraising goal of $100,000 for 2013. As of Wednesday afternoon, May 1, $88,750 has already come in.

Eat some good while supporting the cause in Fairfax City Thursday

Fairfax City's Hard Times Cafe is getting into the spirit of the Run with a fundraising event this Thursday.

Between opening time at 11 a.m. and the kitchen closing at 1 a.m., 20 percent of your tab at Hard Times will benefit the 2013 Run for the Children.

There will also be fun raffle prizes, such as tickets to a Ravens game or Nationals game, an iPad, in-home massages, and other great items.

For more information and a preview of the Run and the fun activities it includes, see the video above.

Are you running in this year's Run for the Children? Tell us in the comments below.

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