Asbury Theological Seminary hosts its sixth annual Wesley Waddle 10k/5k on April 18 at 8 a.m. Once again the Wesley Waddle is partnering with the End It Movement to shine a light on human trafficking. One hundred percent of race donations will be given to Refuge for Women in Lexington, Ky.

This is the third year the Wesley Waddle has sponsored Refuge for Women. Since 2018, race donations have totaled $5,000. An estimated 20-45 million people are enslaved throughout the world. To raise awareness and join the fight for freedom, runners are encouraged to wear a red x on their hands on race day. Last year, 483 runners participated in the Wesley Waddle and this year’s goal is 500+ participants.

“With the blessing of working alongside a co-worker who is a Refuge for Women graduate, I first-hand get to witness the impact the ministry has on women’s lives,” Robin Ferraro, Coordinator of Student Health and Achievement, said. “While there, women are offered the opportunity to be forever changed by learning about the freedom and redemption offered in Christ. That’s why the Seminary hosts this race. It’s about rallying people together to fight towards a common goal, one that brings hope to the oppressed. This race is not about the fitness, it’s about the freedom we get to help others find.

Awards are given to the first, second and third overall winners and age group divisions. All participants receive a performance shirt, a post-race Starbucks and bagel breakfast, and a finisher’s medal. Sign up today at runsignup.com!

Refuge for Women is a nationally recognized organization that provides long-term care for women who have escaped human trafficking. Their program offers safe houses for women in central Kentucky and across the nation. It offers each woman an individualized plan in a therapeutic atmosphere that provides healing classes, faith-based discipleship opportunities, recovery meetings and job training.