28th Walk Against Domestic Violence: The Walk Home

YOUR VOICE.OUR FIGHT.

JAMESTOWN, NY – Project Crossroads is proud to sponsor the 28th Annual Walk Against Domestic Violence, hosted by the Chautauqua Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. This powerful event brings together survivors, families, and community members to honor those affected by domestic violence and advocate for a future free from violence.

Participants are encouraged to wear purple and pink—purple to represent domestic violence awareness and pink to show solidarity with breast cancer survivors.

The event begins at 11:50 a.m. at Jamestown City Hall with a symbolic walk to Baker Park. There, a special program will feature reflections, poetry, and remarks from local leaders. The day concludes with a Community Reception & Resource Fair at Northwest Arena from 3:00–6:00 p.m.

"This year, we reversed our route to send a powerful message about community accountability," said Allison Murphy, Case Manager of Project Crossroads. "Survivors should never have to walk home alone, a metaphor for their journey after court. We must always stand with them, be upstanders in our community, and pledge to support them every day."

The Baker Park program will include keynote speaker Kelly Gast from the Erie County Family Justice Center, along with Diana Butcher from the Salvation Army and Emily Novak from the District Attorney's Office, all major partners in the Coalition.

Following the program, the Community Reception & Resource Fair will feature an art show, a display of the Silent Witnesses exhibition honoring victims of domestic violence, and an opportunity to connect with local service providers. Food will be provided by Sandee's Bakery.

Parking Information: Parking may be limited during the lunch hour. Attendees are encouraged to use downtown parking ramps or designated 2-hour free on-street parking. On-street parking near Northwest Arena is free after 5 p.m.

The Walk Against Domestic Violence is held each October as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The event calls on the community to take a visible stand against violence and ensures survivors never walk alone.

Event Details

• What: 28th Annual Walk Against Domestic Violence
  
• When: Friday, October 3, 2025
  
• Where: Lineup at Jamestown City Hall (11:50 a.m.), Walk to Baker Park, Reception at Northwest Arena (3:00–6:00 p.m.)
  
• Who: Open to the public; all are welcome
  
• Parking: Use downtown ramps or 2-hour free on-street parking; free on-street parking near Northwest Arena after 5 p.m.
  

About Project Crossroads

Project Crossroads operates as a domestic violence investigation unit within the Jamestown Police Department. The unit follows up on cases, conducts patrols, and provides ride-along advocacy. Our therapy dog, Hope, accompanies officers and a civilian advocate who offers immediate support to individuals who may be hesitant to speak with law enforcement. Project Crossroads also facilitates the Chautauqua Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. In addition, the unit provides education on domestic violence and intimate partner violence for local businesses, schools, and service providers, helping them learn how to support employees and community members affected by these issues.

About Chautauqua Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

The Coalition has a long-standing history of serving the community through a wide network of dedicated local agencies and community partners. Allies from these organizations are committed to working together to support individuals in building healthy relationships for the future.

Community Support & Special Thanks

We'd like to thank our community and county partners for their invaluable support. We are especially grateful for Paula Pichon, the City of Jamestown's amazing grant writer, as well as Triple E Manufacturing & Design, Inc., Jamestown Rubber Stamp Company, M&W Graphics, Sandee's Bakery, Reg Lenna Center for the Arts, and WRFA (especially Julia Hanley and Andrew Merchant) for their support in running our ads.

We also recognize the Jamestown Police Department, Jamestown Parks Department, and Mayor Kimberly Ecklund for their ongoing support, including lighting Jamestown City Hall in purple from October 1–3 to honor Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

For immediate media inquiries: Allison Murphy Project Crossroads Phone: 716-483-7718 Email: [email protected]

A Journey Beyond the Courthouse

For many survivors, seeking justice means a difficult and often re-traumatizing walk to the courthouse. While this step is a necessary act of courage, the legal process can be long, frustrating, and not always result in a sense of justice. Our reversed walk acknowledges this reality. It symbolizes a survivor's return from that often difficult path to a place of unconditional support.

From Survival to Growth

The walk's destination—the survivor tree—is a living symbol of strength and resilience. Instead of just walking away from the past, this journey is about walking toward a rooted and stable future. It represents the path to healing, where survivors find the support they need to grow, thrive, and build a new life rooted in courage.

This walk isn't just about escape; it’s about a triumphant return. It’s a visible statement that survivors are not defined by their past—they are moving forward, reclaiming their voice, and finding strength in the community.

Info: Begin the walk. The route should be deliberate, moving away from the center of government and passing through key residential or commercial areas to our Community Park.

Info:
For many survivors, a sense of justice is hard to find, whether in the legal system or in their own neighborhoods. This walk is a powerful statement of solidarity, acknowledging their strength and resilience. By walking together, we send a clear message: the responsibility to end domestic violence belongs to all of us.

Info: We are honored to have Mayor Kimberly Ecklund join us. As a lifelong resident and leader of our city, she is a dedicated advocate for the well-being of all Jamestown residents. Mayor Ecklund has been a strong supporter of Project Crossroads and the CHQADVSA.

Info: For a survivor, the journey often begins by seeking help, and many find it at a place like The Salvation Army. Here, it's more than just a shelter; it's a shield. This is a powerful form of protection comes in many forms.

Info: Kelly Gast, Community Outreach Manager, Family Justice Center of Erie County: A dedicated professional from our neighboring community, she's here to share a message of hope and teach us how to build a stronger community for all.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Jamestown City Hall, 200 East 3rd Street, Jamestown, United States