LAWRENCEVILLE — The Gwinnett County Solicitor General Lisamarie Bristol’s Office on Wednesday awarded proceeds from its third annual Dash 4 Domestic Violence Awareness 5K to three nonprofit organizations supporting survivors of domestic violence.

“The Dash for Domestic Violence 5K is an event that is really near and dear to my heart because it gives us an opportunity to really give back to the community in a meaningful way,” Bristol said. “I’m honored to support these organizations as they continue this very important work for survivors throughout our community.”

During a check presentation held at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center, funds were distributed to Mosaic Georgia, Partnership Against Domestic Violence and Ahimsa House. The funds will support crisis intervention, emergency shelter, advocacy, counseling and ongoing services for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence.

“This morning is really about the proceeds that we raised and what those dollars can do in our community,” Bristol said.

Now in its third year, the Dash 4 Domestic Violence Awareness 5K has brought together runners, volunteers, sponsors and community organizations to raise awareness and funds while connecting residents with available resources. The North Gwinnett Voice previously reported on the event’s community turnout and mission in its coverage, Community unites for Dash 4 Domestic Violence Awareness 5K in Lawrenceville.

“We wanted to do something more than just prosecute cases,” Bristol said. “We wanted to engage the community in a way that feels safe, welcoming and supportive.”

According to event organizers, the 2025 race included 170 registered runners and raised $12,080, including $9,015 from sponsorships and donations and $3,065 from runner registrations. More than 65 volunteers supported the event, which included 33 sponsors, 17 organizations tabling onsite and 44 total resource organizations represented.

“For many people, when they interact with the prosecuting office, that experience can be scary,” Bristol said. “I wanted something different for my team — that the first time people meet us doesn’t have to be tied to trauma.”

Among the organizations receiving funds was Ahimsa House, which provides temporary housing for pets belonging to survivors fleeing unsafe situations. The North Gwinnett Voice previously covered Bristol’s support for survivors and their pets in Gwinnett solicitor general Bristol donates pet supplies to support domestic violence survivors and their pets.

“Over 77 percent of people in unsafe situations stay longer than they otherwise would because they don’t know what to do with their animals,” Bristol said. “If we’re serious about safety, we have to remove every barrier we can.”

Planning is already underway for next year’s Dash 4 Domestic Violence Awareness 5K, which will return to Alexander Park on the first Saturday in October. The race is a certified Peachtree Road Race qualifier.