Campus sexual assault makes up 43% of total on-campus crimes in the United States, resulting in approximately eight forcible sex offenses per 10,000 students, according to the American Psychological Association.

To spread awareness about sexual assault, BGSU students, faculty, and community members are invited to participate in the Sexual Assault Awareness 5k and Dog Walk on April 12 at the BGSU Student Recreation Center.

“This event has been hosted for over a decade,” said BGSU health educator Lauren Albert. “The purpose is to provide information and support to the community about sexual assault prevention and raise money for both The Cocoon, our local partner doing violence protection work and supporting survivors, as well as the Center for Women and Gender Equity, the office on campus doing violence prevention work.”

All proceeds from this event benefit BGSU’s Center for Women and Gender Equity’s Gender Violence Prevention and Education Services and The Cocoon. The price for BGSU students to participate is $15, and is $20 for all others.

“People should participate so that we are able to get the message out about sexual assault prevention and the work we are doing, plus to be able to help fund the programs that are happening in our local and campus communities,” said Albert.

Packet pickup for both the 5k and Dog Walk begins at 9:00 a.m., with the 5k beginning at 10:00 a.m. and the Dog Walk beginning at 10:15 a.m. Prizes will be awarded in various age and competitive categories and therapy dogs will be available to meet.

“We hope that participants gain an understanding of sexual assault prevention that is happening in the local and campus communities as well as resources for both survivors and those who are supporting a loved one who is a survivor,” said Albert.

Registration for this event ends at noon on April 12, and all participants can register here.

For more information about this event, please visit here.