Among the dozens of wonderful non-profit and charitable organizations in our part of the world is Rivers of Hope, the now-30-year old group which combats domestic abuse.

 

Such abuse is contagious - it’s growing and more people need to be aware that it exists, so they can help - or be helped if that time should come.

 

Rivers of Hope President Neal Huemoeller of Buffalo (a former Big Laker) hit on a wonderful fund-raising idea last year in forming the first “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” campaign.

 

He challenged area law enforcement groups and others to put on high heels (if they could foresee walking a mile in them) and stride around downtown Monticello, raising money for the group.

 

It was fun - great for picture taking - and a success, financially.

 

Neal and Rivers of Hope people will be back for their second annual walk June 20, from 5 to 8 p.m. The walk will be for a mile around downtown Monticello - and they are hoping for a cast of hundreds to turn out.

 

Participating cost is $25 for adults; $10 for Ages 6-17; and Free for Ages five and under.

 

Readers can register at www.riversofhope.org or they can call the office at 763-295-3433.

 

What does Rivers of Hope do when they are not out having all this fun?

 

Last year they attended to an estimated 1,300 contacts from Sherburne and Wright county residents regarding domestic abuse issues.

 

Some were frantic late-night emergency calls from parents trying to keep themselves and children away from an abusive family member.

 

Some of them may be young school students who walk into the offices of Rivers of Hope Advocates with a question on their mind.

 

Rivers of Hope has for the past several years expanded its services to visit 32 schools in the two-county area, including seven in Sherburne County.

 

That’s Elk River, Big Lake and Becker.

 

Two assumptions to make.

 

Domestic abuse affects all - including young family members; those who might walk into a quiet office with a Rivers of Hope advocate to ask the question, “Is this abuse?”

 

Plan with your friends for an afternoon of fun and funniness at the “Walk a Mile in My Shoes” event.

 

You’ll be giggling and raising funds for a most-worthy activity.