OU-Macomb to sponsor fourth annual Tara Grant Memorial Run/Walk

Oakland University-Macomb will sponsor the fourth annual Turning Out to End Domestic Violence: Tara Grant Memorial Run/Walk from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 25, at Stony Creek Metro Park.

OU students, staff and family members are eligible for a discounted registration fee of $15. All other participants can register for $25. In addition, those who register in advance will receive a free “TEAM OU-MACOMB” T-shirt. The proceeds from the event will support Turning Point, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to ending domestic violence, sexual assault and homelessness.

Last year, close to 40 Oakland students, staff and family members participated in the event, according to Julie Dichtel, regional director of enrollment outreach. “We are looking to double that number this year,” Dichtel said. “This is a fantastic event and a great way for all to show their support to Turning Point and this important cause.”

The Tara Grant Memorial 5k Run/3k walk began in 2007 as a way for Tara’s family to use her legacy to promote domestic violence awareness and has drawn hundreds of supporters. The event includes a 5k run through the wooded trails at Stony Creek, a 3k fun family walk and a 30 yard dash for kids and new this year, a 10K run. Participants will be treated to refreshments, a brief program and a chance to win raffle prizes from local businesses after the run/walk. The event sets the stage for National Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October and a series of domestic violence awareness activities sponsored by Turning Point.

“Our goal is to let everyone know that domestic violence is real, that it exists in our community and that each of us can play a role in helping prevent it,” said Lisa Brancato, director of development for Turning Point. “Events like these are extremely valuable in raising awareness so that victims of domestic violence can be helped before it’s too late.”

Turning Point is an advocacy and support-based organization that enables survivors of domestic and sexual violence to regain control of their lives by eliminating barriers to justice and safety. Since opening in 1980, Turning Point has provided emergency shelter to more than 23,000 women and children, growing from a 24-hour crisis line and 15-bed shelter to providing comprehensive advocacy and counseling services.

To register, visit Active.com and type “Tara Grant” into the search function. Students must enter the promotional code “Grizzlies” to receive their $10 registration discount.