WALK a MILE in her SHOES!!!

             For those of you that know me, there is one thing about me that you would never guess. Back in high school when  everyone else was planning college and deciding what to wear to prom, I was secretly holding in the fact that I had been raped. I spent many years struggling and bearing the weight of feeling like a worthless victim. This event has been a traumatic experience in my life and yes it has caused many tears, struggles, and upsets- but this event has also lead me to truly believe that God will NOT give me more than I can handle. Without organizations such as the Baton Rouge Rape Crisis Center I would not have been able to see through the impossible and come to the realization that I am NOT a victim, but a SURVIVOR.

On Saturday, April 16, 2011, the Rape Crisis Center is hosting an event called "Walk a Mile In Her Shoes" at the Louisiana State Capitol, based on the old saying that you don't know what someone has been through until you have walked a mile in their shoes. The purpose of Walk a Mile is to have community members "“ and specifically men "“ take a stand against sexual violence.

MONEY COLLECTED WILL GO TOWARDS...services to sexual assault and abuse survivors in the Baton Rouge community free of charge through counseling, hospital and legal advocacy, and a 24-hour crisis hotline.

So I come to you, to ask to donate- $1, $2, or whatever you may chose- to help these services to continue....so that others see that they are not a victim ....but they too are a survivor. My goal is to raise $1,000 by April 16, 2011 to donate to the Baton Rouge Rape Crisis Center. If you feel uncomfortable donating money online you can always donate by cash or check. Please email me at [email redacted] and we can set this up at your convenience.

I along with all other Sexual Assault survivors in the community appreciate your support. Without YOU the hope and possibility to heal would not be possible. I sincerely thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to read this. YOU are making a big difference. If we all try to make one small contribution just imagine the possible outcome.


WALK A MILE IN HER SHOES........
 
           There are a number of ways you can participate. For those truly willing to take a stand, we invite you to obtain a pair of women's high heel shoes and commit to walking one mile around the Louisiana State Capitol. If you are less daring, please dress comfortably and join our walk. Whatever option you decide, you are encouraged to bring your families, your friends, and your co-workers to cheer you on. Women and children are encouraged to walk as well"”they can help the men keep their balance if they are wearing heels!

Join us on April 16th for live music, free food, raffle prizes and free give-aways, and face painting and games for the kids! Help us make this Walk an event to remember!


XOXO

Leigh Ann Austin Charles