Advocates for domestic violence victims are coming together next week for a symbolic walk in the shoes of the opposite sex.

Sponsored by the Muskingum County Domestic Violence Coalition, “Walk a Mile in My Shoes” raises general awareness for domestic violence while also raising funds for the shelter that houses victims, Transitions. 

On Oct. 7 from 5 p.m. until 7:30 p.m., teams will take a lap in front of the Muskingum County Courthouse in support of victims. 

“We also have our celebrity walkers, and that tends to be some of the different people in our community that help,” said Amanda Touvell, an organizer of the event. “We have social work program directors, you know, some law enforcement agencies, various attorneys that do pro bono work for people in these situations, and they’ll strut their stuff.”

Participants will be judged in three categories — most unique, best of show and best strut. 

“Then afterwards, we hold a live auction where they also donate their shoes and various incentives, and anybody is welcome to bid,” said Touvell. “From there, all the proceeds go to benefit Transitions.”

Food and drinks will be on sale during the event, as well as t-shirts, with sales benefitting Transitions.

Teams can still sign up by Oct. 2 to participate. The cost is $100 for a team of 10. To register, contact Touvell at (740) 891-3528 or Dorothy Thomas at (740) 252-2571.

All teams are encouraged to dress in unison for the event or carry banners to promote awareness for the cause.