Spring Engineering, Dex Imaging and Publix Super Markets Charities Sign On to be the Presenting Sponsors for the RAP River Run 5K Run/Walk

Youth and Family Alternatives, Inc.'s (YFA) RAP House Leadership Council has announced that Spring Engineering, Dex Imaging and Publix Super Markets Charities have committed to be the presenting sponsors for the second annual RAP River 5K Run/Walk - Giving our children a pathway of Hope!

"We are thrilled to have three great companies commit to support the RAP House and The RAP River Run," said Victoria Barley, Committee Chair and local Realtor with Residential Asset Partners Realty. "These businesses truly understand the meaning of community and giving back. They are very committed to exposing West Pasco to the many wonderful ways RAP House is helping our children. We are honored to have Spring Engineering, Dex Imaging and Publix Super Market Charities as our partners."

The second annual RAP River Run 5K Run/Walk will take place in New Port Richey on Saturday morning, June 13, 2009 at 8:00 am. The scenic run along the beautiful Pithlachascotee River and around Orange Lake will raise much needed funds for YFA's RAP House serving Pasco County's runaway, abused, neglected and at-risk youth ages 10-17 since 1982. The RAP River Run will feature a 5K race for runners and walkers as well as the Trinity Business Association Kid's Fun Run.

The RAP River Run will be a "green race" and all runners and walkers will receive a custom designed 100% organic cotton shirt. The course has been certified by the USAT and the IPICO Chip Timing system will be used. Information about the race and registration information may be found at the RAP River Run web site. Runners and walkers may register for the race for $15.00 prior to June 7th.

RAP House, opened in New Port Richey in 1982, provides runaway and youth crisis services that help prevent youth from entering the juvenile justice system and/or child welfare system. Many of these youth have been removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect and some may be awaiting a permanent home or are between foster care placements. Without the timely intervention by counselors and staff who truly care, the future of these young people and their families are cloudy at best. In fact without services and programs like RAP House many young people in these types of situations will turn to crime often resulting in greater cost to Florida's taxpayers. Working with runaways, at-risk youth and kids in foster care, especially those who are victims of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse, or outright abandonment, helps them discover their future in a caring and safe environment. Helping these youth now can positively influence subsequent generations by stopping the vicious cycle of violence. To arrange a tour of RAP House call 727-835-1777. For more information about YFA and RAP House, visit the YFA web site.