Walk in My Shoes participants needed

Kim Brumfield from Betty Griffin House reported to Historic City News that the statewide “Walk in My Shoes” event for Lauren’s Kids will make a stop in St. Augustine on Saturday, April 9th, and participants for the hour-long walk are invited.

Lauren Book was a victim of childhood sexual abuse for six years at the hands of her nanny. Book is now a survivor of child sexual abuse. Because of her experience, in 2007 she founded “Lauren’s Kids” along with her father, Ronald Book.

Armed with the knowledge that 95 percent of sexual abuse is preventable through education, Book has worked to turn her horrific personal experience into a vehicle to prevent childhood sexual abuse and heal survivors by starting Lauren’s Kids. Book is a published author and educator in South Florida.

The 39-day, 1,000-mile journey will begin in Key West on Saturday, March 19 and end on Tuesday, April 26 on the steps of the historic Capitol for the “Lauren’s Kids Rally in Tally” at noon.

ON THE LOCAL SCHEDULE: Saturday, April 9, 2011
Call Kim Brumfield to participate 904-808-9984

4 p.m. Start Line
St. John’s County Government Center
4010 Lewis Speedway Street
St. Augustine, FL 32084

5 p.m. Finish Line
Flagler College West Lawn
74 King Street
St. Augustine, FL 32084

Joyce Mahr, Betty Griffin House Executive Director to speak
National Guard SART Team in attendance
Survivors speak
Live music
Student table with giveaways
Book reading and signing at Flager College
Campus movie night featuring Precious

Lauren’s Kids is based in South Florida and educates adults and children about sexual abuse topics through in-school curriculum, a 24-hour Crisis Hotline and speaking engagements around the country.

Lauren’s Kids is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to prevent sexual abuse through awareness and education, and to help survivors heal with guidance and support. The “Walk in My Shoes” event brings together survivors and advocates on an annual walk across Florida to raise awareness and promote supportive legislation.

Safety Shelter of St. Johns County, Inc., the operator of Betty Griffin House, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization who provides emergency shelter to abused women, men and their minor children; as well as temporary shelter for rape victims in danger after the crime. Other support services available include a 24-hour crisis hotline, individual and group counseling, case management, civil legal representation, and court advocacy.