Safe House for Women charity run estimated to have raised nearly $13,500

The ninth annual Safe House for Women 5K charity run, held Saturday morning, nearly doubled the amount of money raised last year.

In 2008, the run earned about $7,000 in donations, and this year's early count showed close to $13,500, despite having 32 fewer runners participate in 2009, said Safe House director Linda Garner. The funds will benefit the women's shelter

Glenda Phillips, a Safe House client who entered the race for the first time this year, and her two grandchildren, who participated with her, raised about $248 in sponsorships.

"Most of the time people were happy to donate," Phillips said. She said she was eager to take part in the run because Safe House has given her family a lot of support.

In the race, which began and ended at the intersection of Broadway and Lorimier Street, Phillips and her two grandchildren, ages 6 and 7, came in 60th through 62nd.

Ellen Dillon, a member of the women's organization Zonta International, said she's been volunteering with Safe House over the years because of how vital a role it can play in helping domestic violence victims get back on their feet.

Dillon was one of many volunteers who helped to organize the run this year.

"I've known a lot of abused women in my life that would have benefited from a Safe House," Dillon said.

Dillon said she used to volunteer to work the Safe House hot line, and her shift was around midnight, the busiest time for the phones because many incidents of domestic assault occur in the late evening or early morning.

She's also done some career counseling for Safe House, helping domestic violence victims learn interviewing proficiency and other skills.

Paula Castleman participated in the run for the seventh year. She said she's an avid runner who believes in raising money for the shelter, but doesn't train for the event.

"I just enjoy this run," she said.

Amy Warren won the female division for the race, and the male victor was Chris Herren.

bdicosmo@semissourian.com

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