Walk to raise funds for Champions for Children in Lake County

It is the time of year when there is often nothing better than a nice long walk in the woods.

People can get their exercise and support a good cause by participating in the Champions for Children Walk Saturday, May 15, at the Lakewood Forest Preserve.

The walk is a fundraiser and education project for the Lake County Children's Advocacy Center, which provides services for victims of child abuse.

The center, only the second of its kind in the nation when it opened in 1987, investigates and prosecutes cases of sexual and severe physical abuse of children through the Lake County state's attorney's office. Champions 4 Children Walk is a statewide event, now in its third year, in which 38 such centers throughout the state are participating.

Laura Notson, executive director of the Lake County center, said public support of the effort is critical this year in the face of reduced funding for the center's operations.

"We have seen a 20 percent cut in one of our grants that funds three of our counselor positions," Notson said. "The amount we are going to receive from two other grants will be uncertain until a final state budget is approved."

With an overall budget of $471,580, the center provided services last year for 294 child victims and 290 non-offending family members.

Notson said the counselors and investigators at the center provide services in a nonthreatening environment and seek to comfort children while preparing cases for criminal prosecution. Saturday's walk begins at 9:30 a.m. and will take place on two courses at the forest preserve, one of which is 21/2 miles long and the other is 5 miles long.

Supporters can register to walk by paying a $15 and solicit sponsors, or people can go to the center's website at www.lakecountyil.gov/statesattorney/Champions4Children.htm to sponsor a walker or to make a donation.

The event will also feature food, facing painting and treats for children.

People can register at the forest preserve in Wauconda. For more information, call (847) 377-3155.

Notson said the center's staff and supporters hope to raise public awareness as well as funds during the event.

"We want to be able to explain to people what we do and give them an understanding of the tragedy of child abuse," she said. "I hope we are just as busy answering questions as we will be serving hot dogs."