Domestic and Sexual Abuse Services will host their annual Survivor Stomp fun-run and fundraiser in Cass County (60525 Decatur Rd., Cassopolis) on Saturday, April 22. This year’s event has evolved into a color-run, and will feature a 5K for runners and a 1.4 mile option to walk. The funds raised by the Survivor Stomp will allow DASAS to provide services to survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.

Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the Cass County Council on Aging, with the opening ceremony starting at 9 a.m. The registration fee is $25 for adults and $15 for youth, and the price includes a t-shirt, medal, bib, and a donation to DASAS. Details, as well as registration for both adults and youth, can be found on the DASAS website.

DASAS has been in existence for over 25 years and serves victims and their families in Cass, St. Joseph, and Van Buren counties, while targeting its programs and services to the needs of those communities. The organization assists domestic violence and sexual assault survivors in clarifying their options, accessing community services that support personal choice, and providing a safe place for survivors and their children. Some of the many services provided by DASAS include a 24-hour toll-free crisis hotline, referrals to provide survivors and their families with safe and affordable housing, parenting skills assistance, and support and education for children who have witnessed domestic violence.

Board President of DASAS Dan Moyle told Watershed Voice not only does the money raised at fundraisers such as the Survivor Stomp help run their emergency shelter, the funds also help DASAS staff meet the needs of many survivors who don’t need shelter, but still need other forms of help. “This can include things like vital document retrieval and personal care items needed to move forward, such as necessities government assistance does not cover,” Moyle said.

Moyle said he has been impressed by the turnout of community members he says simply want to help. “Sexual abuse and domestic violence isn’t something people want to talk about or think about happening in their communities. And yet, every year, people show up to help support survivors of abuse. It’s good to see that support, and the continued financial support outside of a fundraiser like the Survivor Stomp.”

Beca Welty is a staff writer and columnist for Watershed Voice.