Orlando 5K to honor Madeline Soto, raise child abuse prevention awareness

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Madeline Soto, 13 (Orange County Sheriff's Office)

ORLANDO, Fla. – Central Florida families and community members will participate in the Every Child Should be Protected 5K Run/Walk on Thursday.

Organized by Scotti Gallegos, a local business owner and mother of three, the event aims to raise awareness about child abuse prevention while generating funds to support families affected by such tragedies.

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This year’s event honors Madeline “Maddie” Soto.

The 13-year-old was reported missing Feb. 26, 2024, before her body was found days later in St. Cloud. Law enforcement said Soto was killed by her mother’s boyfriend, Stephan Sterns, who is also accused of sexually assaulting her. His trial is scheduled for May.

All proceeds from the event will directly benefit families through RISE Community Solutions, which operates the Children’s Advocacy Center Osceola (CAC Osceola). This organization provides essential resources for victims of child abuse and their families.

  • What: Every Child Should Be Protected 5K Run/Walk Benefiting RISE Community Solutions’ Child Advocacy Center Osceola
  • When: April 3, 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
  • Where: Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company, 1300 Alden Rd., Orlando, FL 32803

Those interested in participating in the 5K Run/Walk can register or donate by clicking here.