HAWC preps for walk fundraiser

SALEM – Organizers are getting ready for the 18th annual Walk for HAWC, the organization’s biggest fundraiser to provide services to victims of domestic violence.The walk steps off at Old Town Hall, 32 Derby Square, on Sunday, April 25 at noon. Registration is at 11 a.m. The five-mile trek typically attracts more than 1,000 participants, raising money and awareness, walking as individuals and teams.The route wends through historic downtown Salem, ending at the start, where live music, food, dance performances and activities for children highlight the event. Not all the walkers actually walk. Since the event is suitable for all ages, some ride bicycles, others rollerblade, ride in strollers or baby carriages. Pets are also welcome.”If you are looking for a meaningful yet fun way to engage in a service project or obtain community service hours for your school, scout troop, community organization or religious education class, we invite you to consider joining us,” said Candace Waldron, executive director of Salem-based Healing Abuse, Working for Change (HAWC).Waldron said anyone interested in stopping domestic violence can also help by putting up posters throughout the North Shore to publicize the walk; create a walk team to raise money; write a letter or article raising awareness about dating abuse; organize a group through your school or organization to educate others about ways they can prevent teen dating violence; or simply volunteer to walk with a cheering team, band or dance troupe.The annual walk is HAWC’s most important fundraiser, bringing in about $150,000 in recent years. Its annual presence in the streets “sends a loud and clear message, celebrating those who have freed themselves from abuse, supporting those still working toward freedom and honoring those who remember a loved one who lost their life to violence,” Waldron said.For more information, call Alicia Weaver at 978-744-8552 or log on to www.hawcdv.org. Anyone in need of HAWC services should call the 24-hour hotline at 800-547-1649.Most teams are comprised of five or more persons – family, friends, co-workers – although individual walkers are invited. Those who can’t walk but want to participate can create a virtual team on the Internet, according to Weaver.All proceeds go to HAWC for its free shelter and counseling services.