The YWCA held their first ‘Walk A Mile In Her Shoes’ fundraiser last Friday.
This is an event where men from throughout the community strap on a pair of heels and go for a stroll to raise funds and draw attention to the problem of domestic violence in the community.
This was the first time Lethbridge has participated in this fundraiser, although it has been held in Calgary for the past five years. This year all four YWCA across Alberta held the event.
The event began at the Galt Gardens with master of ceremonies Jeff Cove, a 26-year veteran of the Lethbridge Regional Police Service.
“I have been touched over the years by many victims and by the people that truly love them. That’s why I am so glad to be here today and to see all of you here today.”
Kristine Cassie, CEO of the Lethbridge YWCA, was thrilled with the turnout of men from all around the community. Lethbridge College was represented with a group of criminal justice instructors and students.
Other participants were from the university, BMO and RBC bank, Myers Norris Penny, and many active and retired police officers.
Before the walk, Cassie said thank you to those who helped raise funds and awareness.
“All funds raised today help women and children in our community. Thank you for having the soul to think of others and to step up and call attention not only to yourselves but to the issues of domestic violence.” Said Cassie.
As the participants began their one-mile walk in heels, it was quite the sight. Some of the participants strutted their stuff proudly and others needed some help along the way from YWCA volunteers. During the walk, singer/songwriter Alyssa McQuaid provided the crowd with entertainment.
Lethbridge College instructors and students made the college proud by not only partaking in the event but also winning three awards: Largest group, second largest amount raised, as well as criminal justice student, Jeremy Ferguson winning best dressed.
Cassie was delighted with the results.
“With excellent media coverage and enthusiasm from participants we will be continuing this event for years to come. We will play with the time and possibly make it a cocktail hour or Saturday morning event to see what brings a better turnout.”
As of Friday, the event raised $14,000 which will be used locally for front line services. Cassie says they are thrilled with what was raised but more importantly with the awareness this has brought to our community about domestic violence.
PHOTO: Jeremy Ferguson and Taylor Kidd, Lethbridge College Criminal Justice students, strike a pose.