Many in the Chico community are looking forward to running or walking in the Aruna 5k, a race that raises awarenes and money for those who are being trafficked in different parts of Asia.

The race will take place at 8 a.m. on Saturday at Lower Bidwell Park by the softball fields. Those who are interested can sign up and learn more at arunaproject.com. 

Human trafficking is a problem across the world and this 5k event aims to help raise awareness and inform people about how widespread it has become and how badly victims are affected by it.

The word Aruna means “bright morning sun” in Hindi. Those involved in the fundraiser are taking steps to help victims of human trafficking reach freedom and see the morning sun again.

“Last year, we had 550 runners for our first ever Aruna 5k and helped rescue and rehabilitate these victims. Please register and surrender your Saturday morning to run or walk to help take action for those who cannot,” said Jordan Fastenau, a Chico resident who participated in last year’s run.

Hannah Suzuki can be reached at [email protected] or at @theorion_news on Twitter.