WAKEFIELD — The Wakefield Alliance Against Violence (WAAV) announces their annual race Racing to End Domestic Violence, will be held on Saturday, October 19. The WAAV race is a 5K around Lake Quannapowitt leaving from The Lakeside Inn on North Ave. at 9 a.m. This year, organizers are also having a Kids Fun Run for kids 12 and under which will begin at 8:45 a.m. All runners/walkers signed up before October 1 will be guaranteed a race shirt. Cash prizes will be given to the top male and female in each age group.
WAAV is a non-profit organization with volunteers living, working or having personal ties to our community. Their goal is to end domestic violence in our community by educating youth about healthy vs. unhealthy relationships, help link survivors to resources and hold events that promote awareness. WAAV has sponsored RAD Women Self-Defense classes, coordinated Respond Inc. Advocates visiting health classes at the High School and eighth grade levels to discuss healthy relationships, assisted victims with lock changes in emergency situations as well as other support, provided legal consultation for survivors of domestic violence and hosts a weekly support group for family members of victims of domestic violence.
Joie Gerrish, WAAV President stated, “The WAAV race is our only fundraiser. We continue to be overwhelmed and thankful for the support from our local businesses and community members who have sponsored our race for the past eight years. Their support enables us to continue funding our current initiatives. We look forward to another fun and successful race day this year on October 19 during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.”
To sign up for the race or learn more about becoming a sponsor, please visit waavonline.org. For any questions, email us at WAAVcares@gmail.com.