CASA for the Highland Lakes Area invites the community to participate in the 2nd Annual Speak Up For Kids 5K and Kids K presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas on Saturday, September 11, 2010. This event will increase awareness of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), recruit more volunteer advocates, and raise funds to support our mission. All proceeds from our race will directly benefit CASA for the Highland Lakes Area in our efforts to train CASA volunteers to give a “voice” to abused and neglected children in court and the foster care system.

CASA for the Highland Lakes Area has been serving the children of Blanco, Burnet, Lampasas, Llano, and San Saba Counties since 1993. Last year, 101 volunteer advocates served 170 abused and neglected children and your support of this event will help serve even more children this year. CASA volunteers gain a firm understanding of a child’s case and serve as the “eyes and ears” to a judge. They bring a strong voice and a helping heart to find each child a safe, permanent home.

Families are encouraged to participate with their children by walking, jogging or running the 5K together or participating in the Kids K the morning of September 11 at Johnson Park in Marble Falls. The 5k committee is excited to announce that this years race will be a chip timed race. The festivities will include a variety of family-friend activities to keep the smallest members of the family entertained. Rudy Moreno of Moreno’s Jewelers will serve as this year’s Race Director and is actively managing the course, recruiting volunteers, and seeking sponsorships.

To sign up visit www.casa5k.org or for more information contact Rudy Moreno at (830)-798-9127 or Emily Montgomery (830) 693-0808. Registration is $28 for the 5K and $10 for the Kids K (12 and under). Runners will receive a t-shirt and all kids who run will also receive a medal as they finish. Awards will be presented in each age category.