In the state of Tennessee, there were over 38,000 cases of child abuse last year. It’s a horror that no child should ever have to face – but unfortunately it happens – in every walk of life. Headlines in the newspapers, television, and internet contain stories of children whose lives are forever changed due to the abuse they have endured. All of us in one way or another are affected by these stories. Every day the doors are open at the Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse to welcome those children and families who have been affected and start them on their journey of healing to a happy and healthy life.
The Center works to fulfill its mission of providing support to families in preventing and dealing with child abuse in West Tennessee and to helping both parents and children meet the practical needs of preserving and improving the quality of family life. The RunAJM Jackson Andrew Jackson Marathon proudly donates its proceeds to The Center to help make a difference in our community.
Not only can participants help support The Center through running the race, but also by bringing a new teddy bear to donate at packet pickup or on race day. Children who receive services and counseling from the Center get the opportunity to hand-pick a teddy bear that will become their Beary Best Friend throughout their journey. We’d like to make sure that supply of teddy bears is never-ending so no child is without. Simply bring a new teddy bear of any size with you to packet pickup or to the race festivities location on race day. Our volunteers will gather them and line the start of the race with the bears. Our goal is to fill the hill of the start line! Help us reach our goal and let the children know that someone cares by providing a Beary Best Friend. We can continue to improve their quality of life and give them hope for a brighter future.
