Woman raises awareness, funds for abused Congolese kids, women
An Arlington Heights stay-at-home mom, Tracy Ronzio, finds herself suddenly in the role of activist, making public speaking appearances, and being sought after for print and broadcast interviews, no less.
Her cause: inspiring people to take the next step for women and children enduring daily violence in the Congo.
"Throughout the past six months, I have been going around town speaking on the tragedies and hopes of the Congo," Ronzio says. "My goal is to give voice to the Congolese."
Her efforts come to a head on Saturday, when she hosts the second annual 5K Run/Walk For Congo Women. The event kicks off at 8:30 a.m. with registration and a 9 a.m. start, in Chicago's Lincoln Park, just east of Lincoln Park Zoo.
Last year, Ronzio drew 25 participants, and already this year she approaches 200, thanks in part to her tireless efforts to promote the cause, including an interview last week on Chicago Public Radio's Worldview program.
Ronzio was inspired by another woman, Lisa Shannon of Portland, Ore., who ran 30 miles for an organization called Women For Women International, which aims to empower women survivors of war.
Taking Shannon's lead, Ronzio first ran Chicago's half-marathon, before taking on the challenge of mounting a Chicago area event specifically designed to raise awareness and funds for Congo Women.
"This is just a grass roots effort," Ronzio says. "I am a stay-at-home mom just trying to demand the same privileges and freedoms that I am blessed with, for those who are living with unspeakable violence."
Proceeds from the run benefit Women For Women International's program in the Congo, for which ultimately they hope to raise $1 million.
It's not out of sight. Momentum is building, not only for Saturday's event, but worldwide. After last year when there were four Runs for Congo Women, this year there are events in 10 states and four different countries.
It has turned into a global movement, Ronzio adds, and one that allows regular people to literally save lives with every step they take.
To find out more about the event, visit: www.runforcongowomen.org, or e-mail Ronzio, at: TracyRonzio@wowway.com.