April 12th, 2008 marks the inaugural Loop the Lake 5k run/walk, hosted by Kappa Delta Lakeland Alumnae Association and the Kappa Delta chapter at Florida Southern. The event, which will be preceded by a Blue Ribbon Dash for elementary aged children, serves to raise money and awareness about child abuse prevention and to educate the community about Polk County’s own local prevention agency, Heartland for Children.

From their early philanthropic connection with the Children’s Hospital of Richmond, VA to the Girl Scouts of U.S.A. and Prevent Child Abuse America, Kappa Delta has a long association with efforts to help improve the life of children. Kappa Delta, nationally and locally, recognizes the importance children play in our lives today and in the future. Every year, Kappa Delta’s across the country hold an event to raise money for their national philanthropy, Prevent Child Abuse America. Of all the money raised by the collegiate chapter and Alumnae Association, 20% goes to PCAA and the remaining 80% stays within the community. A few years ago, Gamma Epsilon chapter of Kappa Delta at Florida Southern College and the Lakeland Alumnae Association joined together with Heartland for Children. Heartland for Children is in charge of carrying out the responsibilities and duties of the Florida Department of Children and Families for Polk, Highlands, and Hardee Counties. Heartland handles a wide range of functions including foster care, case management, family reunification, and family prevention and intervention services. Heartland for Children’s focus is not only on intervening in situations of abuse and neglect, but also on providing services that educate the community and serve to strengthen the family and promote positive influences for the family experience.

The number of Polk County children with an indication of child abuse or neglect in 2006-2007 was 5,555. This is about 40 of every 1000 children, or nearly 1 in 25 children who are abused or neglected. There are about 2,400 children in protective services, with 600 of those being in a licensed setting (foster care, shelters, or group homes). The rest are able to either stay with family, a family friend, or even in some cases, inside their own home. Child abuse and neglect costs the U.S. state of Florida about 103.8 billion dollars annually.

The Blue Ribbon Dash is $5 and children K-5 may participate. The walk/run is $15 and will begin on Johnson Ave. at Florida Southern College and proceed around Lake Hollingsworth. Registration can be found on www.active.com (search Loop the Lake 5k) or via a mail-in flyer. Parking and sign-in will be on the FSC campus at Johnson Ave. Games, face-painting, and other family activities will also take place.

For more info. contact:

Jennie Scully
863.680.4409