What a Walk! Walk a Mile in Her Shoes 2026

On April 18, 2026, our community came together once again for the 15^th annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event hosted by Blackburn Center. This year’s Walk, held at St. Clair Park in Greensburg, welcomed more than 850 participants who showed up with energy, purpose, and a shared commitment to change. Under the powerful theme, “Empowering Change. 15 Years of Connection. 50 Years of Impact,” the day reflected on both how far we have come and the work that still lies ahead.

We lucked out with an absolutely beautiful April day, complete with sunshine and clear skies. Supporters arrived ready to learn, connect, and stand in solidarity. From longtime advocates to first-time walkers, the park was filled with people united by a common goal: ending gender-based violence in our community.

The stage area served as a hub for creativity, education, and engagement. In collaboration with Seton Hill University’s Art Therapy Department, University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg’s Spanish in the Community class, Penn Trafford’s Sunrise Elementary School Art Department, Blackburn Center’s Education/Outreach Department, participants had opportunity to interact in hands-on activities designed to inspire reflection and conversation. A highlight was this year’s look back in time over 15 years of the Walk. There was even a red brick road to follow, with each square of “bricks” highlighting why the Walk is so important. 

Members of the Blackburn Center’s Board of Directors and FAME (Fearless Advocacy for Men’s Engagement) group were also present, offering interactive opportunities to engage with the cause, and encouraging participants to take the pledge to help end gender-based violence.

Throughout the event, there was no shortage of ways to interact and enjoy the morning. With support from Greensburg Salem High School’s Art Department on this year’s design, event t-shirts were available while supplies lasted. Walkers grabbed coffee, water, donuts, bagels, and snacks at the breakfast tent, generously provided by community partners including Starbucks, Walmart, Target, Giant Eagle, Donut Chef, Herr’s, and Oakmont Bakery. After the Walk, participants could also enjoy a Smiley Cookie, donated by Eat ‘n Park. Teams gathered for photos captured by SkySight Photography, while music from DJ Chris Stankay added an upbeat soundtrack to the event. The sense of community was unmistakable at every turn.

As the crowd gathered before the Walk began, a group of dedicated speakers took the stage to share their perspectives and reinforce the importance of the day. Their remarks reflected on Blackburn Center’s mission, honored survivors and victims, and reminded everyone that meaningful change starts with individual action. A moment of silence to honor all of those whose lives were tragically taken by violence offered a powerful pause for reflection before the event moved forward.

The Walk officially kicked off just before 10 a.m., led by a team from our underwriting sponsor, Tuscano Agency. Participants stepped off with purpose, carrying signs, wearing symbolic red footwear, and showing their solidarity as they made their way along the route. With support from Gatekeepers Security Services, Bikers Against Child Abuse, and Sports Medic LLC, the event remained safe and accessible for all. 

What stood out most was the diversity of those who participated. Families, students, professionals, community organizations, and local businesses all showed up in force. Friends walked side by side, teams cheered each other on, and even four-legged companions joined in. It was a true reflection of a community united. We would also like to extend a special thank you to Redstone Highlands for their continued support of the Walk each year.  Their involvement across their communities is a powerful reminder that everyone can play a role in creating a meaningful change. 

We were proud to recognize this year’s top teams:

Most Participants:

1. Ketterer Charter School 

2. University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg 

3. Westmoreland Case Management and Supports, Inc. (WCSI) 

4. Team Hitachi Energy 

5. Democratic Women of Westmoreland 

Top Fundraisers:

1. Democratic Women of Westmoreland County

2. Ketterer Charter School

3. Hitachi Energy

4. Westmoreland Case Management and Supports, Inc.

5. Westmoreland LGBTQ & PFLAG

Every dollar raised and every step taken contributes directly to supporting survivors and advancing prevention efforts throughout Westmoreland County.

Events like this don’t happen without an incredible support system. From volunteers working behind the scenes to those helping on the ground during the event, the dedication and hard work of so many individuals made the day possible. Their commitment continues to drive our mission forward year after year.

While Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is a powerful annual event, the conversation and action it inspires shouldn’t end when the day is over. There are many ways to stay involved with Blackburn Center throughout the year – whether through volunteering, donating, or bringing educational programs into workplaces, schools, and community groups.

Most importantly, each of us can carry the message forward in our everyday lives. Small actions – listening, supporting survivors and victims, speaking out, and challenging harmful behaviors – can create meaningful change over time.

As we reflect on 15 years of walking together and 50 years of impact as an organization, we’re reminded that progress is built through connection, compassion, and commitment. Thank you to everyone who made this year’s Walk such a success. We look forward to continuing this journey with you in the years ahead.