Virtual Walk A Mile exceeds expectations

By Cecilia Nasmith

Cornerstone Family Violence Prevention Centre has announced that more than $51,000 was raised at its 13th Annual Walk A Mile event – and their first virtual version, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.

These funds will support the vital programming and services available to women and children impacted by family violence, and the agency, manager of community engagement Janelle Eisler said in the announcement. And the results surpassed their expectations.

“Year after year we rely on the good men and women of Northumberland to step out in style to help our organization, and as always, our community did not disappoint us,” Eisler said.

“We were very nervous and unsure of how the virtual event would go, but we could not have been happier and more grateful for the turnout and success the event had.

“I want to thank our generous sponsors, enthusiastic volunteers, and of course our dedicated walkers, new comers and past participants, who have committed to the success of this fun event.”

Cornerstone executive director Nancy Johnston called the results “truly spectacular.

“We are extremely grateful for the willingness of so many men and women who volunteer their time and their financial support to take part in this event.

“We saw a lot of creativity this year with walkers and teams making the walk their own and bringing new life to the event. All of this creativity and generosity directly impacts the work that we do and improves the lives of hundreds of women and children each year who are impacted by family violence.”

Cornerstone strives to be a place where hope grows, breaking the cycle of family violence by providing immediate shelter, counseling and prevention services throughout Northumberland County.

Last year, they provided services to more than 2,100 Northumberland residents. For more information, visit www.cornerstonenorthumberland.ca.