Domestic Violence Walk
The club initiated this effort as South Carolina was sixth in the nation in 2021 with 57 homicides related to domestic violence. Statistics show that 2.15 women were murdered per 100,000 in South Carolina, an increase from the previous year of 1.18 killed per 100,000 women.
South Carolina tops the nation for domestic violence deaths and resources are at risk. There has been a steady increase in domestic violence deaths in South Carolina over the last decade.
Domestic Violence is defined as the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have been victims of some form of physical violence by an intimate partner with their lifetime. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men report having experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime.
Our club wants to help make a difference in our state, by helping those in our community who may be experiencing Intimate Partner Violence, Elder Abuse, Child Abuse and Teen Dating Violence.
In July of 2021 the GFWC North Myrtle Beach Woman’s Club and its Domestic Violence Committee were brainstorming about how to raise funds for their Domestic Violence Victims Fund. Board Member, Connie Lawson suggested a Walk Event for Domestic Violence Victims Needs in our community. Linda George Sweatt and Bonnie O’Brien, the first Chairpersons of the Domestic Violence Committee, set about to create a walk event in October 2021.
The committee, board members, volunteers and the North Myrtle Beach Woman’s Club presented the first “What a Difference a Mile Makes” walk, an event for domestic violence victims. The event was held at the North Myrtle Beach Sports Complex with many local sponsors from the North Myrtle Beach Community participating.
The committee coordinated local politicians, speakers, celebrity DJ’s, the police and fire department, food trucks, entertainment and cartoon characters to participate at the event. There was also a complimentary drawing of beautiful baskets and gorgeous purple pumpkins, and in addition, a photo booth. Activities were provided for the kids and pets were welcomed.
The walk was a huge success for its first year and exceeded all expectations. Over 100 walkers and 30 local sponsors participated in the event.
Monies raised for this event support the needs (food, gas, supplies, counseling, etc.) for victims of domestic violence. Funding also supports education and awareness of domestic violence in the NMB community and surrounding areas.
The 4th annual Domestic Violence walk was held on Saturday, October 19, 2024.
The 2024 event was chaired by Kim Allen and co-chaired by Valerie Clarke. If you were unable to attend the walk but would like to make a donation, please go to the Donate tab. By your participation, you will help support those impacted by domestic violence in our area.
A big thank you to all who participated in the “What a Difference a Mile Makes” Walk Event for Domestic Violence Victims!
Click below photos from the walk route where our sponsors were recognized. For additional pictures from the day of the event please visit the club Facebook Page.
2024 Domestic Violence Walk Sponsors
These community businesses and individuals support our Domestic Violence initiatives and our giving to other charitable organizations in an effort to improve the lives of others in the North Myrtle Beach area. A special and heartfelt “Thank You” to these businesses and individuals who understand the importance of giving back to our community. Let’s recognize their generosity by thanking them and patronizing their businesses.
Michelle Green School Board Candidate
Seaside Furniture Gallery & Accents
North Myrtle Beach Heating & Air