Members of the Martinsville-Henry County community will sponsor a walkathon on June 4 to raise awareness about the impact of drugs and violence.
Branded as “a day of healing and fellowship,” the event will include guest speakers who have been a victim, or know someone who has been a victim, of addiction or violence.
Speakers include Kaye Morehead, whose son overdosed just a few months ago, and Kalisha Payne, whose son was recently killed. Dr. Chris Wilson will share his story about serving 18 years in jail for a crime which, it has since been proven, he did not commit.
A representative from Piedmont Community Services will also be on hand with literature that explains how individuals experiencing addiction issues may seek help.
The walk begins at noon in the Big Chair Lot in Uptown Martinsville. Participants are asked to gather in the lot at 11 a.m. Cruise-in cars also will be parked there. The walk will end at Baldwin Park below Albert Harris Elementary School, where guests can enjoy live music, free food and beverages, and listen as the speakers share their stories.
Participating in the walk is not necessary to participate in the events at the park.
The walkathon is sponsored by Reach Out Apostolic Church, Ann’s Kitchen, Heads of State ENT., Pastor Charles Whitfield, Performance 276, Iriswood Supervisor Garrett Dillard, Martinsville Vice-Mayor Jennifer Bowles, the Boys and Girls Club of the Blue Ridge, Pepsi Danville, and God’s Pit Crew.
