A crowd of 400 runners and walkers are expected at the 12th Annual Julia’s Run for Children held at Yale University, April 10th at 9:30 a.m. This year’s 4-mile run will start and end on Yale University’s Cross Campus. Serious racers, recreational joggers, and walkers are expected to participate. (The course is slightly altered from previous years due to construction on Prospect St.) Registration fees are: $20 during pre-registration, $25 on day of the race. The price includes a T-shirt for the first 250 registrants, a raffle ticket, and post-race refreshments. There will also be a half-mile “Fun Run” for kids: $6 pre-registration, $9 on the day of race.


The annual run is the primary fundraiser for The Julia Rusinek Memorial Fund, a not-for-profit organization. The previous Julia’s Runs have attracted on average 250 experienced and beginner runners each and resulted in over $80,000 in contributions to Leadership Education Athletics in Partnership (LEAP). LEAP provides year-round academic and social enrichment programs for children and youth from high poverty neighborhoods in New Haven.

Julia Rusinek was a rising senior at Yale University at the time of her death. She died of an undetected heart condition on July 15, 1999 at the age of 21. Julia was a gifted writer, an avid runner, and a humanitarian strongly devoted to helping underprivileged children. This event celebrates Julia’s life by combining Julia’s passion for running with her commitment to making a difference in the lives of children.

The Julia Rusinek Memorial Fund was started by her family and friends to ensure that Julia’s commitment to children and love of sport lives on. With this year’s funds, the organization will continue its support of LEAP.

To register for this year’s run, volunteer, or make a tax-deductible donation, please call Roza Rusinek at (516) 487-9502. To learn more about Julia, the Run, or the Fund, visit www.juliarun.org or e-mail juliarun@gmail.com. The Julia’s Run is sponsored by Jonathan Edwards College of Yale University.