MAAV Walk Raises More Than $58,000

The following was submitted by MAAV:

It was a record-breaking year for the Melrose Alliance Against Violence. More than 900 people attended MAAV’s 24th Annual Walk & Candlelight Vigil, and the event raised $58,156 for MAAV’s education and violence prevention programs.

The event drew teams from middle and high school clubs and sports teams, elementary schools, houses of worship, businesses and other civic and community groups. During the candlelight vigil, 23 victims of domestic violence homicide, including 16 women, one man and six children were commemorated.

MAAV Board member Anna Bastian was honored posthumously for her leadership and advocacy to end domestic violence, and the Walk was led by Anna’s friends and family. This year’s record-breaking fundraising total will allow MAAV to continue all of its education and prevention programs in the Melrose schools and community, as well as a support group for survivors of abuse.