Start Out Fresh Intervention Advocates (S.O.F.I.A.) invites the community to celebrate “With Awareness There is Hope” at its 13th annual Walk Against Domestic Violence in beautiful Canterbury Park on Saturday, September 30. The walk begins at 10 a.m., and the program ends at Noon.
S.O.F.I.A. welcomes Anthony Smith, a life coach and domestic violence survivor, as Grand Marshal. Smith earned his coaching certification from Heroic Benefit Corporation, a social platform whose mission is to help individuals activate the best version of themselves. Smith grew up the oldest of 11 children and was a witness to how domestic violence produces trauma, fear, depression, and rage. He also observed long-ranging effects such as family estrangement. Smith’s work is about gaining strength and creating a transformative platform to help others be open and honest about their own experiences.
S.O.F.I.A. holds its Walk Against Domestic Violence to show those affected by domestic violence, especially those still in abusive relationships, that they are not alone and that they have a network of support to hold them up. Joining S.O.F.I.A.’s 13th Annual Walk Against Domestic Violence on September 30th means showing support through action and dedication.
The Annual Walk Against Domestic Violence is S.O.F.I.A.’s biggest event and works to accomplish three main goals: 1: To raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding intimate partner and domestic violence; 2: To ensure SOFIA has the resources to address emergency needs of domestic violence victims including the #WeCare assistance program; To secure funds for operational maintenance of the S.O.F.I.A. Success Center including outreach, workshops, and community programming.
S.O.F.I.A. could not achieve these goals without the tremendously generous support of our community sponsors. The call for support is still active. The sponsorship package is here.
Cynthia Walker, executive director and founder of S.O.F.I.A., shared, “Our 13th Annual Walk Against Domestic Violence is a time to come together to raise awareness and dispel the stigma associated with unhealthy relationships. We welcome the entire community to joyfully help us to continue our work on prevention and healing.”
Walk Schedule:
- 9—10 a.m.: Registration, snacks, and raffles
- 10 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.: Walk at your own pace!
- 11:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.: Grand Marshal – Mr. Anthony Smith and Recognitions
- 12 p.m. – Closing prayer with the Community
Registration for individuals starts at $20. Team Captains can register their teams for $45 and have team members sign up for $20 each. Teams can represent a business, organization, or community group; it’s a great way to highlight community involvement and values. See more information here.
Those unable to join the event can walk virtually via social media posts and live broadcasts or make a donation directly to S.O.F.I.A. in honor or remembrance of a loved one via PayPal here, or send a check to S.O.F.I.A., PO Box 674, Montclair, NJ 07042.