People come from near and far - from Greenville and Bangor - Abbot and Charleston - Milo and Monson - Perry and Auburn - people and families come to share in our effort to walk and run against Domestic Violence. Just as we walk and run to commit ourselves to ending or finding a cure for diseases we need to take a stand against Domestic Violence.

Of the 10 homicides in Maine this year (2004), 6 are related to Domestic Violence (Me. Dept. of Public Safety). Domestic Violence effects nearly one quarter of the women in the US, more than 12 million, will be abused by a current or former partner some time during their lives (American Medical Association).

Locally, Womancare has served over 400 people, this year alone. Consider that 80%-90% of children in violent homes are aware of the domestic violence in their families (Minnesota Center Against Violence and Abuse Electronic Clearinghouse). Your mother, daughter, sister, friend, co-worker, or PTA member may well be affected by Domestic Violence - In the year 2001, more than half a million women (588,490 women) were victims of nonfatal violence committed by an intimate partner(Bureau of Justice).

So, come walk or run with us. It doesn't take a lot of time. The scenery is beautiful, remember - hundreds of people walking and running to end a deadly family secret. Womancare's 8th Annual River Run and Family Walk on Saturday, October 2nd at the Piscataquis Community Middle School in Guilford will begin with 8:00 a.m. registration followed by the race/walk at 9:00 a.m. Thanks to the Sub 5 Track Club Series, in addition to our traditional walk-a-thon and 5K race, Womancare has added a challenging 12K River Run. Those with $25 in pledges will receive a t-shirt (while supplies last), $50 in pledges earns a 32 oz. sports bottle, and $100 or more earns you a windbreaker!

A community breakfast will be served from 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. $5 per person or $12 per family. Call 564-8165 for more info.