Hi everyone!  For the past four years, I've participated in the annual Hot Chocolate Run/Walk, which is an event that raises funds for Safe Passage, an organization that supports victims of domestic violence in Western Massachussetts.
 
On December 2, I'll be walking (or running, if I get my act together) in this great event for the fifth year.  In the past I don't believe I've done any fundraising, but this year each participant has been challenged to raise $150.  Safe Passage relies on support from the community to fund their programming and services -- including an emergency shelter program, individual counseling and support groups, legal services, a 24-hour hotline and more.  Here are some examples of what these services cost:

$20: Emergency funds for a woman to purchase groceries or diapers
$45: A one-hour counseling session for a woman seeking help for the first time
$80: One weekly drop-in group session for survivors of domestic violence
$100: An hour of ASL interpreting for a deaf survivor's counseling session
$135: Three sessions for children who have witnessed domestic violence

This event is also a bit more near and dear to my heart this year, as I've met several students at my internship who are victims of domestic violence.  Please consider supporting me in this cause.  All contributions are tax-deductible, and you’ll receive an emailed receipt immediately after you donate.

Thank you so much for your support!  If you want to register for the event or learn more about it, visit http://hotchocolaterun.com.