"About two years ago I personally experienced Domestic Violence in my life," says Event Founder Heather McAllister.

"I actually have been a victim myself of domestic violence, so have some of my best friends and my mom," says Erika Nagy, of Columbia MD.

The Breakaway 5-K is in its second year, and event founder Heather McAllister says she started the event to raise awareness, and send the message that people shouldn't be afraid to breakaway.

 "I think I was embarrassed of what it would say about myself, but you're going to be ok, you're going to be strong, and there's people there to support you, and you're going to be bigger and better because of it," says McAllister.

Proceeds from the event support Frederick's Heartly House.

 "I'm here with my son and we're out here supporting my wife, because it's for a good cause," says Thomas Pauter, of Frederick, MD.

"The fact that they organized something like this for multiple people, who go through this, makes a statement, and maybe more people can come out of their shell," says Nagy.

Heartly House provides services for victims and survivors of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault and child abuse.

 "Heartly House was there for me that very night to help me, with legal services, counseling services, someone to talk to on the phone," says McAllister

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic violence, one in every four women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.

McAllister says she started running as a therapy for herself, and never imagined this event would grow to have 700 participants. She says it her way of giving back to the Heartly House.