Annual Memorial Run Fundraiser Benefitting LEAP Goes Virtual

Press release from Leadership, Education and Athletics in Partnership, Inc.:

April 1, 2021

What: A virtual 5k memorial run that celebrates the memory of Julia Rusinek.
Julia was a gifted writer, an athlete, and, above all, a selfless humanitarian. The event combines Julia’s passion for running with her commitment to making a difference in the lives of children. Registration is free but donations in Julia’s Honor will benefit LEAP, a leadership development organization dedicated to empowering New Haven’s children and youth.

Where: Anywhere. It will occur virtually, with everyone completing the popular 5k on their own
special route. Participation in any form is welcome…you can run, walk, bike or even swim!
Join the event on this Facebook Event Page: https://fb.me/e/1fH4QdjTu

When: April 18th, 2021 at 10 am. Because we have people tuning in from around the world anyone is welcome to participate at anytime, anywhere!

Who: Members of the New Haven community, Yale, friends and family of Julia Rusinek, and LEAP supporters.

Why:Money raised in Julia’s honor will be directed to LEAP to make free programming for youth from low-income neighborhoods possible.

Leadership, Education and Athletics in Partnership, Inc. (LEAP) was founded in 1992 by educators,
students, and community activists to address the historic disinvestment in young people of color in our city. Then and now LEAP believes that young people have the intellect, enthusiasm, courage, and leadership potential to make real change. LEAP creates the space and marshals the resources so that young leaders can mentor, educate and care for the children of New Haven.

College and high school student counselors provide LEAP’s direct services to younger children. They help with homework, provide emotional support, lead classroom literacy instruction, and teach swim lessons, cooking classes and computer science.

History: The mission of the Julia Rusinek Memorial Fund is to celebrate the life of Julia Rusinek and honor the ideals for which she lived: supporting children in poverty through programming aimed at developing leadership skills, a love of literature and writing and dedication to athleticism.

Julia died of an undetected heart condition on July 15, 1999. She was 21 years old. Learn more at
Juliarun.org

This press release was produced by Leadership, Education and Athletics in Partnership. The views expressed here are the author's own.