Statesville Women’s Club to Host ‘Walk a Mile in Their Shoes’ Event
The Statesville Women’s Club will host its annual “Walk a Mile in Their Shoes” event as part of an international effort to raise awareness about domestic violence and provide resources for survivors.
The event is part of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs’ International Day of Service, an initiative involving more than 500 clubs working to support efforts addressing domestic violence. The Statesville Women’s Club is among approximately 110 clubs statewide participating in projects focused on domestic violence.
The walk will begin at the Statesville Women’s Club clubhouse, where participants will follow a marked one-mile route before returning to the clubhouse for light refreshments and additional information and speakers.
Janine Burchette, president of the Statesville Women’s Club, said the event is intended not only to raise awareness but also to provide an opportunity for people to learn about domestic violence and the resources available to those affected. Burchette emphasized that domestic violence can take many forms and affects people across different communities.
“There is a lot of shame around domestic violence,” said Burchett, adding that events such as the walk can help people recognize that they are not alone and can reach out for support.
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, nearly 3 in 10 women (29%) and 1 in 10 men (10%) in the US have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by a partner and reported it having a related impact on their functioning. In addition, intimate partner violence alone affects more than 12 million people every year. This statistic does not just include adults but children as well with 40% of child abuse victims also report experiencing domestic violence.
The event also aims to challenge the question often asked of survivors: “Why did you stay?” Burchette said understanding the dynamics of abuse, including what is sometimes described as “intimate terrorism,” can help communities better understand why leaving an abusive relationship is not always simple.
The Walk a Mile In Their Shoes event is in support for My Sister’s House, a safe and supportive refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence, sexual violence and human trafficking. The Statesville Women’s Club is holding a donation drive for items such as clear shower curtains, cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, dryer sheets, paper goods, mattress protectors and more.
The Statesville Women’s Club has been part of the community since its establishment in 1920. The club operates under the umbrella of the GFWC, which was established in 1890 and now represents clubs across all 50 states. The club includes women ranging in age from their 20s to their 70s. Members with years of experience mentor newer members, creating a mix of backgrounds and generations centered around community service.
“When I say teamwork happens, these ladies come together and we make things happen,” said Burchette. “So full of the volunteer spirit.”
The club also supports other local initiatives throughout the year. Recent projects have included helping the local library, raising funds and purchasing supplies for summer reading programs, supporting the Foundation of Hope through geranium sales and maintaining the club’s historic clubhouse.
Members are also supporting Bella’s Backpack, a project that provides backpacks filled with belongings for children affected by abuse or living in homes.
The “Walk a Mile in Their Shoes” event will offer community members an opportunity to walk together, learn more about domestic violence and show support for survivors and local organizations working to help them. The walk will take place on Saturday, Sept. 26 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 515 West End Ave., Statesville, NC.
If you or a loved one is struggling or needs someone to talk to, the 24/7 Domestic Violence Support & Hotline is available. Call 1-800-799-SAFE(7233) or text “Start” to 88788.
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