Atlanta Run for Mercy Advances Mission, Promotes Hope

March 17, 2016

Last Sunday nearly 150 participants gathered to support Mercy at the third annual Run For Mercy 5K and Family Walk held at Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta, Georgia. Forecasts called for rain and thunderstorms, but the skies cleared and the sunshine and warmer temperatures made for a perfect race day.

Upon arrival to the park, the runners and walkers enjoyed the sponsor booths, kids’ activities, and a pre-race warm-up led by Rivet Events.

In an opening program, 2015 Mercy graduate Kimberly shared her personal story of transformation with the crowd. Kimberly explained how the sexual abuse and rape she had experienced when she was younger drove her to self-harm, drink, smoke weed, and party to numb her confusion and pain. She entered Mercy very broken and angry at herself, but through the Mercy program, God showed her that she is loved and forgiven. With Mercy’s help, Kimberly was able to receive the healing she needed. She now walks in freedom and currently manages her parents’ coffee shop in the Atlanta area.

In a closing ceremony, awards were given to top male overall runner Gilberto Madonado, with a time of 19:54, and top female overall runner Brittany Whigham, with a time of 25:12. Awards were also presented to the top male and female runners in each age category.

Top fundraisers were honored as well. Courtney Page earned top individual fundraiser, raising $1,265. Activation Church earned top team fundraiser, raising $500.

To conclude the event, Mercy’s Donor & Development Manager, Emily Corwin, said, “Thank you to everyone who came out to our run this year. The sunny and warm weather was an answer to prayers, and I’m so thankful to everyone who helped and participated. Your support through this run is making a difference in the lives of the girls who come to Mercy.” 

Mercy is grateful for the generous sponsors, volunteers and participants who made the 2016 Atlanta Run For Mercy such a success! A special thanks goes to Farmers Insurance, PhidippidesGeorgia Neck & Back, Rivet Events, Johnson Ferry, and Atlanta Classic Comics.

If you were unable to participate in the Atlanta Run for Mercy but would still like to give to the cause, please click here.