SAPA to hold Walk a Mile in Her Shoes fundraiser
It's time to see if men can walk like women.
Sexual Aggression Peer Advocates or SAPA will be having a Walk a Mile In Her Shoes event Feb. 16 from 6 to 9 p.m. as a fundraiser in Finch Fieldhouse.
“This event is a wonderful way to bring so many people out and spread awareness, it’s a fun way to talk about a serious topic,” said SAPA member and Rockford senior Steve Wheeler.
The first walk starts at 6:30 p.m. and the second walk will start at 7:40 p.m.
Registration is $5 per person. Those who register ahead of time will receive a shirt along with the walk. If purchased on the same day, it will cost $15.
This community event will have organization booths from both on and off campus groups that will be attending to support the cause. OWL’s, VOX, Women’s Aid and Bay Area Women’s center will be a few of supporters.
“People should come out and support the event by bringing all of their friends because the money will be going directly to SAPA,” said junior SAPA member Heather Kozar.
Each year over 300 people contact SAPA. This peer advocacy group hosts a 24-hour crisis line and online service. Calling SAPA can help students deal with stalking, sexual assault, harassment and abuse all in a confidential manner.
Kaite Young-Kendall Muskegon sophomore is helping out with the event by distributing shoes to the many walkers.
“I am excited about distributing shoes because I'll get to hear peoples comments directly after they finish their walk," Young-Kendall said. "The fight to end domestic violence isn't an easy one, and this walk won't be easy either.”
Wheeler recently made a Facebook event page for the event and if students search on the CMU website under SAPA you can find registration and pledge forms to support the event. The event will provide advocacy and awareness to many students while raising funds for SAPA, said Young-Kendall.
The famous saying “You can’t even begin to understand another person’s experience until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes,” is inspiring men and women alike to come out and support SAPA and gain awareness about violence against women.
“I think that if anything the event will be a conversation starter on campus to make sure that people are aware that domestic violence and sexual abuse is a real life issue that needs to be combated," Young-Kendall said, "Not only here at Central but also in communities around the state and country"
