Supporting Projects Helping Rwanda Recover from Genocide

We have been moved by the plight of children and orphans around the world and living in poverty who suffer the effects of the HIV/AIDS. The first five years of the race aimed to raise awareness of this issue in our community. Net race proceeds were donated to UNICEF, specifically earmarked to benefit programs of affected populations in sub-Saharan Africa. This year, we are developing a new focus, building on and consistent with our efforts during the first five years. Leg It For Life will now support projects to help Rwanda recover from genocide.
In 1994, nearly 1 million people died during the Genocide Against Tutsi in Rwanda, a very small and poor country in eastern Africa. This represented almost 15% of the population. Lingering consequences of the genocide include extreme emotional trauma among survivors, a swelling of the population of orphans, and an increase in the prevalence of HIV/AIDS resulting from rape during the genocide and the survival needs of girls and women immediately following.
Leg It For Life is part of a diversity of linked initiatives involving members in the Lansing area working directly with Rwandan orphan and survivor groups in projects including teaching entrepreneurial, IT and English language skills, building health care capacity, and business development aimed at reducing reliance on foreign assistance. Among these projects, Leg It For Life is developing a sister race in Rwanda. Working with a large orphan group and the Rwandan Government, the race will promote fitness for all, and especially encourage participation of women and girls