The 2013 CASA 5K gets underway this year on April 20 at East Marion Park in Fairmont, sponsored by Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children in Harrison, Marion, Monongalia and Preston counties.

The road race urges participants to dress as a superhero to symbolize the need to make a difference in the lives of abused and neglected children.

Activities will consist of a timed 5k kids’ fun run, kids’ carnival, after-party and other family fun events. Preregistration is available at active.com and race day registration also is available. For race details and more information, visit www.facebook.com/events/527355377296517.

During times of crisis, CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to help a child navigate the unknowns of the child welfare system. The volunteers provide children with a sense of security by know knowing that someone will be there for them during the entire court experience.

CASAs watch over the children so they do not becomes lost in the system and have an opportunity to become healthy, productive adults who have broken the chain of abuse. For more information on CASA, visit www.casaforchildren.org.