Superhero Challenge

The Child Abuse Network’s 3rd annual fundraiser is set for Sunday, April 3.

Although every child deserves to grow up in a safe, supportive home, we are all frighteningly aware that child abuse happens every day. The Child Abuse Network (CAN) is currently seeing 50 kids per week from new allegations of abuse. CAN professionals and volunteers believe there is hope for every child. Staff members work with each child, one at a time, to ease the pain, stop the hurt and begin the healing process.
In 2014, nearly 11,000 children residing in Tulsa County were subjects of child abuse investigations or assessments. That’s 1 of every 14 children in the county, and the numbers continue to grow.  
Child abuse investigations pose unneeded stress and trauma to the children involved. CAN works with each child during initial stages of investigation by addressing their basic need for a safe environment. Children receive collaborative intervention services including interviews, medical exams, case reviews and mental health consultations, all done in one place with one team. Every child is heard, respected, and goes through this process only once.
Ashley Neal and Mary Ann Cameron are co-chairs of the 2016 Superhero Challenge. This fun-filled family event is a fundraiser with proceeds supporting services provided by CAN. Ashley and Mary Ann have announced that Sunday, April 3 is the 2016 event date, and it will be held at POSTOAK Lodge & Retreat located west of downtown Tulsa, from 1 to 4 p.m.
The event provides fun, food and entertainment for the entire family, and everyone is encouraged to dress as a superhero. Registrations must be made by March 4 to guarantee receipt of an event T-shirt. Registration will close by March 22, but register as early as possible because the Superhero Challenge is expected to sell out early. For convenience, register online and stop by the center for early packet pick up.
This year’s event features the Sidekick Challenge for kids and the Superhero Challenge for older children (11 and up) and adults. The Sidekick Challenge features jumping, climbing, crawling, trail running and more. Parents are encouraged to accompany children on the course. The event will be conducted in heats at 15-minute intervals, with the first heat starting at 1 p.m. You may register for the time you and your kids would like to run either course.
The Superhero Challenge will include jumping, climbing, crawling, pulling and throwing. Races begin at 1:10 and 2:30 p.m., and participants in both events receive participation medals. The idea is to have lots of family fun!  
All participants will park at Central High School (3101 W. Edison St., Tulsa). Shuttles will run between Central and POSTOAK at approximately 15 minute intervals from 12:30 to 4 p.m. Please arrive at the school at least 45 minutes prior to your heat time. If you need special assistance, arrangements can be made by emailing eat0@eau0eav0eaw0.
A Fun Zone will open at 1 p.m. and will feature face painting, inflatibles, popcorn, snow cones, children’s yoga and much more.
Call or visit online for more event information and info on the $500 award going to the school with the most participation in either challenge.