Our goal for the walk/run is to spread awareness about domestic abuse and engage the community in supporting every person’s right to feel safe and live free from violence. Pre-registration is currently available via www.safevoices.org — sign up before April 30 to get a $5 early-bird discount on the race registration fee. Participants can register as either 5K runners, 5K walkers or 1-mile walkers.

Once registered, participants can raise money by collecting pledge donations for their walk/run efforts. All money raised will fund vital services to victims of domestic violence in Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties. Strollers and well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome.

With your help, Safe Voices will continue to provide crucial shelter, advocacy and education services to our community. These services are more important than ever in keeping Maine safe. Last year, one-third of the homicides in Maine were the result of domestic violence.

In its last fiscal year, Safe Voices provided 10,378 hours advocating for victims, provided community education to 7,664 individuals in Androscoggin, Oxford and Franklin counties, and provided shelter to 126 individuals (including 62 children). These are just some of the many examples of the work we do every day that are supported through fundraising efforts like the 5K walk/run.

If you’re not able to join us June 4, donations are still gratefully appreciated and can be made on our website at www.safevoices.org. 

Corporate sponsorship opportunities are still available. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, or if you have questions about the 2016 5K Walk/Run to End Domestic Violence, please contact Staci Beal, volunteer and fundraising coordinator, at 795-6744 ext. 214 or email sbeal@safevoices.org, or check us out on Facebook.

If you are concerned that someone you know may be a victim of domestic violence and would like to receive information and support, Safe Voices has a free, confidential helpline available 24 hours a day at 1-800-559-2927. Thank you. — Staci, Safe Voices.

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