by Julia Sundstrom
On Sept. 15 the seventh annual Men In Heels race hosted by Hilltop’s Latimer House was held in Downtown Grand Junction to support and raise funds for domestic violence prevention resources.
“The funds go towards keeping the Latimer House running,” the special events coordinator for the Latimer House Paige Cadmen said. “When a woman leaves their home in crisis, a lot of times the only things they can bring is their purse and kids. They really need a lot when they come to our crisis center and things like we take for granted for. We also have a 24-hour crisis line so people can call and get the help that’s needed.”
Each of the 20 all-male teams raced each other in platforms, heels and open-toed wedges to help provide a safe environment for people in town affected by domestic violence and sexual assault.
Out of 20 teams, 18 were reoccurring competitors from local businesses and organizations. There were a total of 10 rounds where two teams would compete. Then the final round of three teams with the best relay times competed.
The services provided by Hilltop’s Latimer House includes emergency shelters, case management, support groups and other vital services for those affected. The funds raised from this race will fully help support and benefit their operations.
All of the teams had costumes from various pop culture including a Ghostbusters theme to professional suits on top with shorts to tutus and tiaras. Each of the competitors duct taped their heels to their legs to help support them running.
“Tonight went fantastic,” Cadmen said. “Teams came out ready to race and they raised a lot of money for Latimer House and domestic violence here in Mesa County. We officially raised over $28,000 just from this event. Last year there was 527 instances of domestic violence in Mesa County, who could potentially utilize of our services and need our help. Since February, we have had over 600 calls, 360 in the safe house, and another 300 community clients with group sessions and case management. ”
For more information on the cause and donation opportunities visit meninheelsrace.org.
