YWCA Greenwich’s Harmony Project will kick off Domestic Violence Awareness & Prevention Month with its annual Walk the Walk Against Domestic Violence on Sunday, October 4, at 9:00am at Bruce Park. This free, family-and pet-friendly one-mile walk is open to the entire community and aims to raise awareness about domestic violence and the free services available to survivors and their families.
Greenwich Police Chief Jim Heavey will serve as the event’s Honorary Starter.
Mary Lee Kiernan, with event co-chairs Krissy Schmitz, Heather Sahrbeck, Tracy Guarnera, and Greenwich Police Chief Jim Heavey at the Walk and 5K Run Against Domestic Violence in Roger Sherman Baldwin Park. Oct 5, 2025 Photo: Leslie Yager
In addition to the walk, participants can enjoy family-friendly activities including face painting, bagels and coffee. Pet Pantry will also be on hand with a Bone Bar for four-legged participants. YWCA Greenwich’s Harmony Project will host an information table where community members can learn more about the program’s free domestic and sexual violence services.
“Domestic violence can affect anyone, and no one should have to face it alone,” said YWCA Greenwich President and CEO Mary Lee Kiernan. “Our Harmony Project is here to provide free, confidential support to anyone in our community who needs it. We hope this year’s Walk the Walk brings people together not only to raise awareness, but also to remind survivors that help is available.”
Walk the Walk Against Domestic Violence raises awareness and funds to support YWCA Greenwich’s free domestic and sexual violence services, including counseling, crisis intervention, emergency shelter, criminal court advocacy and a 24/7 hotline.
“Awareness is an important first step in creating a community where everyone can feel safe in their homes and relationships,” said Jackie Collazo, Director of the Harmony Project. “When we come together to walk, we’re showing survivors that they are not alone and that our community stands with them. Every step brings us closer to breaking the silence and ending domestic violence.”
To sign up for the walk, click here.
For immediate crisis support related to domestic or sexual violence, call YWCA
Greenwich’s 24/7 crisis hotline at (203) 622-0003.
Founded in 1919, YWCA Greenwich is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. YWCA Greenwich provides programs for people of all ages with initiatives that include preschool and after school programs, aquatics programs, youth athletics, health and fitness programs and seminars focusing on racial justice and women’s empowerment. Additionally, YWCA Greenwich is the only provider of both domestic and sexual violence services in Greenwich, with staff who are licensed to provide crisis intervention, counseling, shelter, and victim advocacy. These services are free.