Why I Run for the Children each year

I am Melissa Chern, a real estate consultant with Keller Williams in Fairfax, and on Saturday, May 4, I will continue a tradition that has become very important to me, I will Run for the Children.

Why do I run? My reasons are like a pledge that I have taken on behalf of abused and neglected children here in Fairfax County – and everywhere.

~I run because abused and neglected children are innocent victims who need someone to stand beside them in the unfamiliar world of child protection.

~I run because each child deserves a chance to grow up feeling safe and supported in a family they can call their own.

~I run because I believe that each of us can make a difference in the life of a child, even if it is just by gathering in support of their future on one day each year.

~I run because I was that child who needed a CASA volunteer to believe in me and fight for my future…

My twin sister and I were placed in foster care at age two; it was a scary and lonely time. We were adopted by a lovely couple at age five, but it was not an easy transition. I believe that my early years might have been very different if a CASA volunteer had been there, getting to know me, my sister, and my foster parents, talking with my social worker, and fighting for my needs when they were overlooked.

Every abused and neglected child has the right to an advocate who will stand by their side. I hope you will join me on May 4 and help support the Fairfax CASA volunteers who are there for children, making sure that they have a chance to grow up just like any other child, with safety, security, and love.

Join us on Saturday May 4, for Fairfax CASA's Run for the Children 8K Race & 3K Run/Walk.  To register, go to www.fairfaxrunforthechildren.com.