Men will put on pumps, platforms, stilettos, chunky heels and strappy sandals for the second annual Champions in Heels: A Men's Relay to End Family Violence on July 18 at the Bentonville High School track.
The event is a fundraiser for the Northwest Arkansas Women's Shelter as well as a means to raise awareness about domestic violence, says Merritt Royal, development director for the nonprofit organization.
Champions in Heels: A Men’s Relay to End Family Violence
What: Race in high heels, costume and shoe contests, games, food
When: 9 a.m. July 18
Where: Bentonville High School track
Registration: $25
Attire: High heels and costume
Information: (479) 246-9999 or nwaws.org
Not only will runners compete for best time to the finish line as individuals and teams, there will be other categories of prizes that include Best Shoes and Best Costume. The family-friendly event will also feature food, games and face painting.
The shelter serves women and men and their children who are leaving abusive relationships. Residents at the emergency shelter stay an average of 30 days, during which time they have access to counseling for themselves and their children, assistance navigating the legal system and finding a job.The group served 546 people in 2014 and 629 in 2013.
Children comprise approximately half of the shelter's population, Royal says, with boys outnumbering girls. She says boys are more inclined to emulate and perpetuate family violence, so the shelter makes sure to have male advocates and volunteers so that they are surrounded by positive male role models.
-- CARIN SCHOPPMEYER
NAN Our Town on 07/09/2015