Since 2005, Saheli has been organizing an annual 5K Walk Against Violence during October, Domestic Violence Awareness month. This year, the walk was held on Sunday, October 3rd and despite the harsh winds and weather was attended by the young and old alike. Board Member and event organizer, Tanvi Devimane led the way for the community who came out for the walk, which included children as young as seven. Both children and adults walked the path with equal fervor, joy and enthusiasm. Guided skillfully by three Burlington Police Officers through the town of Burlington, the walkers helped raise awareness about the high rates of domestic violence in our communities. 
To support community everyone who came out, walkers were treated with chai, granola bars and chocolate cookies upon completion of 5K route at Saheli’s new home at 11 Bedford Street, which is right across from the Burlington Public Library and Police Department.
The walk was supported by local businesses such as Smita’s Boutique in Burlington, of which Rita Shah, Saheli Family Services Coordinator expressed her deep gratitude. “Smita Boutique was very generous to donate clothes for sale at the walk to support Saheli’s domestic violence program,” Rita said.
Gouri Banerjee, Saheli’s Board President was also in attendance, and noted that the outpour of volunteer support for the event, especially of the many new young volunteers, was great to see and she encouraged the volunteers to become more involved with Saheli.
Overall, the volunteer was a big success and Saheli would like to saythank you to everyone who helped make the event possible. We hope to see you all next year!
To learn more about volunteering with Saheli, visit http://saheliboston.org/get-involved/ or write to info@saheliboston.org
Written by Ria Saurabh, Saheli Volunteer
