In a remarkable display of unity and dedication, Sequoyah County is set to play a pivotal role in the “How Far Would You Go?” fundraising walk, organized by Help In Crisis, aimed at combating family violence, stalking, child abuse, and sexual assault.

Scheduled to commence at 8 a.m. on June 20, the event will kick off at the Cherokee County Courthouse in Tahlequah.

Laura Kuester, executive director of Help In Crisis, and Angela Rhea, president of Help In Crisis Board of Directors, will embark on an arduous journey covering an astonishing 150 miles across four counties and four cities over the course of four days.

Kuester and Rhea said they plan to walk more than 24 miles per day.

However, not just Kuester and Rhea will brave this challenging trek. Shawna Morris, director of the Sequoyah County Safehaven Child Advocacy Center, and Donna Owens, forensic interviewer, will join the walk at the Sequoyah County/Adair county line.

The two, along with any other walking participants, are scheduled to pass by the Sequoyah County Courthouse on June 21. Organizers said they are encouraging the public to cheer the participants on, and to bring signs showing their support.

The duo will walk tirelessly to the Sequoyah County Courthouse and onward to Vian, symbolizing the solidarity and determination of the community in supporting victims of abuse and violence.

“Our theme, ‘How Far Would You Go?’, isn’t merely a question—it’s a call to action,” Rhea said. “It embodies our unwavering commitment to stand by those affected by profound challenges, no matter the distance.”

The Sequoyah County leg of the journey holds particular significance, highlighting the local community’s role in breaking the cycle of violence and fostering a safer environment for all. The ladies said they aim to raise $150,000, with every dollar going directly towards creating Transition Housing.

“This initiative is a cornerstone of hope, offering long-term housing solutions for survivors of domestic violence. It’s not just a roof over their heads; it’s a foundation for rebuilding lives, a sanctuary where healing begins, and a stepping stone towards a life free from fear,” Kuester said.

According to information provided, after a 30 to 60 day stay at a shelter, victims/ survivors may have limited or no options for housing. This often leads them to either returning to their abusive home, entering an unsafe relationship, or becoming homeless.

The inclusion of Sequoyah County in this initiative underscores the widespread support and advocacy for victims of abuse and vio- lence within the region.

All proceeds generated from the event will directly contribute to Help In Crisis, reinforcing their mission to provide transformative care and eradicate violence from homes and communities. Individuals interested in participating can donate, register for the walk, or amplify the cause through social media using the hashtags #HowFar-WouldYouGo and #SupportHelpInCrisis.

For further information, contact Kuester at 918-456-0673 or director@ helpincrisisinc.org. The route is as follows:

Day One

• Start: 8 a.m., Cherokee County Courthouse

• Finish: Adair County Courthouse (estimated arrival 8 p.m.)

• Distance: 25 miles Day Two

• Start: 5:30 a.m., Adair County Courthouse • Finish: Sequoyah County Courthouse (estimated arrival 6 p.m.)

• Distance: 28 miles

• New Stop: Greenleaf State Park (overnight rest stop, estimated arrival 2 to 3 a.m.)

Day Three

• Start: 8:30 a.m., Greenleaf State Park (transportation provided) • Walk: Start at Wagoner County line (Hwy. 16 N. of Fort Gibson)

• Finish: Wagoner County Courthouse (estimated arrival 3 p.m.,)

• Distance: 15 miles

• Walk: Wagoner County Courthouse

• Distance: 7 miles

• Finish: Sequoyah State Park (estimated arrival 7 p.m.)

Day Four

• Start: 7 a.m., Sequoyah State Park

• Finish: Cherokee County Courthouse (estimated arrival: 3 p.m.)

• Distance: 18 miles