The Tinley Park-based Crisis Center for South Suburbia Auxiliary is hosting the seventh annual Walk Against Domestic Violence on Saturday at Lake Katherine Nature Preserve, 7402 College Drive, Palos Heights.
The one-mile walk will take place rain or shine. Check-in is set for 8:30 a.m., with the walk taking place from 9 to 11 a.m.
All proceeds benefit clients and residents of the Crisis Center for South Suburbia, a nonprofit community organization that provides emergency shelter and other essential services for individuals and families victimized by domestic violence.
The cost to walk per adult is $15. Children 12 and under are free. Registration and payments also will be taken on the day of the event.
“This is not a formal walk,” said Irene Riggio, who is co-chairing the event with Barbara Politano. “Participants will be able to walk and tour Lake Katherine at their own leisure that morning. It is not a typical structured, formal walk.”
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The walk has been held at Lake Katherine since its inception. Last year’s walk drew 250 participants.
“We’re hoping for an even larger turnout this year, as the event increases in popularity, of at least 300 walkers,” Riggio said.
All adult walkers will receive a free T-shirt and water. Blood pressure screenings will be offered by Walgreens, along with pamphlets with information about health.
Raffles are to be held, with prizes including gift certificates from local restaurants and businesses. The event is sponsored by Prime Time Restaurant & Bar in Hickory Hills.
Since 2008, the auxiliary has been promoting awareness of the Crisis Center for South Suburbia throughout the south suburbs.
“The women’s auxiliary for the CCSS is made up solely of dedicated and hardworking volunteers,” Riggio said. “Because of your support and that of organizations and the businesses in the community, individuals and families served by the CCSS will receive emergency shelter, legal advocacy, prevention education, counseling and other essential services.”
The Crisis Center for South Suburbia has helped more than 55,000 individuals since its establishment 36 years ago and remains the only residential shelter in an area serving more than 800,000 people in south and southwest suburban Cook County, according to Riggio.
Kelly White is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.