Robbie Goins, Melinda Wilson, Maggie Inscho, Stoney Love, Bill Roehl and others braved the chilly morning to take part in this first event.

By Charlotte Underwood 

LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – The Campbell County Children’s Center held its first “Taking Steps to Prevent Child Abuse” 1K fundraiser walk on Wednesday morning at Seargeant Park.

Despite cold, wet weather, the turnout for the event went well, according to Children’s Center Director Traci Davis. A second walk occurred later in the day at Indian Mountain Park in Jellico.

The event was held in lieu of the annual Child Abuse Luncheon, which is a big fundraiser and awareness event for the Children’s Center, but it had to be cancelled this year due to COVID-19.

State Farm Agent and pastor Lynn Ray closed the ceremony with prayer at the Children’s Center 1K benefit walk.

According to Davis, the 1K walk was a great way for the community to come together in a safe way and bring awareness to the Children’s Center, as well as raise some “much needed funds.” The event coincided with National Victims of Crime week. National Crime Victims Rights week is April 18-24. 

Multiple elected officials, city leaders, law enforcement and individuals gathered together Wednesday morning to show their support of the Children’s Center and children in the community. Many businesses sponsored the event to help with the fundraiser.

County Mayor E.L. Morton (left) and guest speaker Greg Leach (left) walk during the Children’s Center 1K benefit walk held at Seargeant’s Park Wednesday morning.

Attorney Greg Leach was the guest speaker for the event. Having experienced the tragedy of losing a child to vehicular homicide, he spoke about the importance of advocating for victims of abuse and victims of crime and most important, “not keeping hate in your heart.” “Turn to your support staff, your family and friends; pray,” Leach said.

Davis thanked everyone for attending the event and for the support of the businesses and community as a whole. “Without their support, we couldn’t do all we do for the children,” Davis said.

The Campbell County Children’s Center was founded in 2001 to provide a safe haven for sexually and physically abused children.  It serves Campbell, Claiborne and Union counties. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 04/22/2021-6AM)

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