Dozens of men strut their stuff in their highest high heels in Galt Gardens Friday afternoon. Not only was it a sight to see, but a important fundraiser for the YWCA.
The YWCA Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is an annual walk where men raise funds and walk one mile in high heels. The walk shows support for women and their children who take steps to walk away from family violence.
“A number of our women have experienced violence from men in their lives,” interim CEO Jennifer Lepko said. “Then they see that there are fantastic male role models in the world and not all men are like what they have experienced.”
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Lepko said the initial goal was to raise $25,000 but before the walk even got underway, the count was over $43,000. Money raised at the Lethbridge event stays in the community to help neighbours, family and friends.
The YWCA would like to remind the community that the support services are not only for women and girls; men and boys can also reach out for support getting out of domestic violence situations.
On Friday, businessmen, students and community leaders took part to support the women in their lives.
“Having two daughters, it’s just a really important issue for me,” fire chief Richard Hildebrand said.
“If I can contribute at all to raising awareness or building support in the community, then I’m happy to do it.”
Even though some men struggled on the course, all participants endured the pain of high heels knowing they were supporting an important cause.
“It’s very important to get a good pair of shoes, and important to come early,” Mayor Chris Spearman said. “If you don’t, you can suffer more than most!”
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