9th Annual Just Us for Justice Run

By Jessie Podolak

The 9th Annual Just Us for Justice Run was a huge success this July.  Despite dangerously high temperatures, runners (674 of them), volunteers (175 of them) and supporters headed to Carson Park to support Fierce Freedom and International Justice Mission.  Over $27,000 was raised to fight human trafficking and modern day slavery!

This year, Fierce Freedom began to transition into a new role for the race. Race founder, Jessie Podolak, approached Jenny earlier this year and asked her to consider having Fierce Freedom take over the leadership of the event.  This would allow many of the people who express a desire to “do something” to help fight trafficking to participate in a tangible event that IS making a difference globally, regionally and locally.  Jessie thought it would also take the race to the next level, bringing a fresh perspective and creativity to the table.

Fierce Freedom has accepted this challenge and is excited to transition into the role of “Event Coordinator.”  Some things will change in the upcoming years as Fierce Freedom takes on this role.  While International Justice Mission will still receive donations from the event, a higher percentage of resources will stay local, so we can fight trafficking here in our own back yard.  In addition, some logistical aspects of the run itself will change, as we hire out a chip timing company, and other details that will come together.

However, many things will stay the same.  Race leaders will continue to embrace a community driven event, with sponsors from various businesses and churches (multiple denominations) being represented.  We will continue to strive to put on an event that the entire family can enjoy, and hope to expand our children’s activities.  We will continue to use the event as a platform for educating our community as well as raising funds, and hope to inspire a new generation of freedom warriors!

This is a great step for Fierce Freedom and for the future of the Just Us for Justice Run!  As the 10th anniversary of the run approaches, we look forward to celebrating the work accomplished and pushing on to new goals ahead!