ARIZONA NEWS

R.A.T. Race raises awareness about sex trafficking

Oct 14, 2014, 6:00 AM | Updated: 6:00 am

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PHOENIX — Most of us want to get out of the rat race, but this one is sure to be one Valley residents won’t want to miss. It’s the first-ever Run Against Trafficking (R.A.T.) race organized 100 days before the Superbowl comes to Glendale in February 2015, and it’s not a coincidence.

“I would hope that it’s not news to anybody now that Superbowl is considered the single largest venue for underage sex trafficking,” said Race Chairman Brenda Gifford.

Super Bowls in past years have been tied to an increase in trafficking, Rat Race Arizona says.

Every organization in the state that helps stop sex trafficking or helps victims has been invited to participate and are encouraged to raise money for their own organizations through the event. It’s the first community-wide event established to unite all the organizations working to help the victims of trafficking.

“We invited every non-profit to come under out event to help raise money for their organization,” said Gifford. “We wanted complete collaboration, and it’s worked out wonderfully.”

The race happens Oct. 25, 2014 at the Reach 11 Sports Complex in Phoenix.

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R.A.T. Race raises awareness about sex trafficking