Walk

Shoes is a nationwide event founded in 1987. The event is a playful opportunity for men to walk a mile in women’s shoes to raise awareness in the local community about the serious causes and effects of domestic violence. The goal of the event is to heighten awareness and increase the education about the issue

According to Gordon County Domestic Violence Outreach, the Walk a Mile event is designed to raise awareness about domestic violence issues in the Gordon County community. While the event is supposed to be fun, the underlying issues are distressing. The walk allows all community members to take a stand and promote a zero tolerance attitude. By participating in the walk, citizens are acknowledging that domestic violence is wrong and that it needs to stop.

In 2014, close to 200 walkers participated in the event; last year only saw 50 walkers due to rain. The walk is a family- friendly event and serves as a great way for children and teens to become aware of issues faced by our community and learn to advocate for change.

The walk will begin on the lawn of PruittHealth Hospice; will proceed south on Wall Street to Hicks Street and then return back north on Wall Street to finish at BB&T Park.

All proceeds from the walk will assist Gordon County victims of domestic violence. According to Gordon County Domestic Violence Outreach, in 2014, almost 600 new clients were served in the office, but it is common knowledge that many domestic violence incidences go unreported because victims fear for their safety, while others do not realize that help is available.

All members of the community are invited to participate; for anyone unable to attend, walkers can be sponsored or donations can be made.

Walkers can preregister by calling the Gordon County Domestic Violence Outreach Office at 706- 625- 5586 or contacting them through Facebook. Registrations can also be faxed to 706- 6255510. Registration will also take place the day of the walk, but you must pre- register to ensure that you receive a walk t- shirt. If you have questions about registration, please call the office at 706625- 5586.