On this deeply insightful episode, host Jeanne Pepper is joined by Erin Runnion, the Founding Director of The Joyful Child Foundation—In Memory of Samantha Runnion. This impactful 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization is dedicated to the essential mission of preventing crimes against children through comprehensive programs focused on education, awareness, and empowerment for children, parents, and communities.
The foundation's genesis is rooted in a profound and tragic loss that Erin Runnion experienced: the abduction, sexual assault, and murder of her beloved five-year-old daughter, Samantha Runnion, on July 15, 2002. Samantha was an artistic, bright, and joyful little girl, and her tragic death became a national news story. Despite enduring unimaginable grief, Erin made the courageous choice to channel her pain into proactive advocacy for child safety. Within weeks of her daughter's passing, she focused her energy on creating a lasting legacy for Samantha and ensuring her death would be a catalyst for positive change in the world.
