3rd Annual Walk Her Way Draws Record Crowd

More than 200 men, women and children put on high heels and took to the streets of Rosemary Beach for the largest Walk Her Way yet. Now in its 3rd year, the event raised $31,000 for Shelter House and Rosemary Beach Foundation and brought awareness to domestic violence.    

"We are grateful for our sponsors, local businesses and individuals who support Walk Her Way each year," said Zuma Banks, Rosemary Beach Foundation board president.

Led by a second line jazz band, walkers strolled around town showing off their favorite pair of high heels, decorated shoes and fun costumes.  Unique shoe-themed awards designed by Sherry Londe were presented at the after-party, which featured music from the Village Brass Band.

The winners were: Best Dressed – Sacred Heart Heals; Leader of the Pack – 30Avenue Aces; Got the Ball Rolling – Marcia Robbins of Fit Your Way 30A; Star Spirit – George Lindahl; Super Strut – Team Rockin' Rosemary Beach; Top Team – Krewe du Shoe; and FunRaiser – Acme Ice House.

Walk Her Way is not just a fun walk. It also brought a serious message about respect and healthy relationships with a display of Shelter House's Clothesline Project, a touching exhibit that allows adult and child victims of domestic violence to tell their story through words and art, at the start and finish lines.

"It is exciting to see so many people in the community taking action to help the victims of domestic and sexual violence we serve," said Shelter House Executive Director Michelle Sperzel.

Rosemary Beach Foundation held the first Walk Her Way in 2012. "We are proud to present this event each June," says Malayne DeMars, Executive Director. "Mark your calendar, get your shoes ready, and plan to join us in Rosemary Beach for the 4th Annual Walk Her Way on June 12, 2015."  

Established in 2006, Rosemary Beach Foundation promotes and supports community events, educational projects, and charitable giving through its annual programs:  Girls Getaway, Music in Pictures, Rosemary Beach Unleashed and Walk Her Way. In its eight year history, over $400,000 has been donated to local organizations.

Shelter House, Inc. is a state certified domestic and sexual violence center serving Okaloosa and Walton counties and offering emergency confidential shelter, crisis counseling, a 24-hour hotline, children's programs, information and referrals, education, professional training, safety planning and prevention services to survivors of domestic violence and their children.