Founded in 1979, Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey has been on the front lines trying to keep children safe across the state.

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The nonprofit offers nearly 13 different family support programs, including home visitation services, parent education groups, and initiatives to promote parental involvement in a child's education.

"Our work is about the prevention of child abuse and neglect," said Dr. Ashawnda Fleming, Director of Development and Marketing. "We actually work with parents and families before anything happens."

Fleming said they served more than 38,000 families statewide in 2013.

Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey devotes $0.92 of every $1.00 donated for their services

"Our overall mission is to make sure that every child in this state has a healthy, happy childhood that is free from abuse and neglect," Fleming explained.

They are partnering with several student groups from Rutgers University to host the Race for Prevention: A 5k to Remember Jessica Miller.

Jessica was beaten to death 12 years ago by her stepfather.

The event takes place on Saturday, April 26, at Johnson Park in Piscataway. Registration starts at 7:00 a.m. and the run begins at 8:00 a.m. The race features a superhero theme.

Fleming said she is hopeful that the 5k will serve to honor Jessica, and also raise awareness on the dangers and pitfalls of child abuse.

"What we'd like to do is have this Race for Prevention each year to remember the life of Jessica Miller," she said.

Find out more about this great New Jersey group and the upcoming event by visiting the Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey website and Facebook page.

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