Holly's Hope 5K in Bel Air to Combat Domestic Violence

A Bel Air High School student’s desire to help victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse is the driving force behind the first annual “Holly’s Hope 5K,” set to take off this weekend from Ma & Pa Trail in Bel Air.

Ethan Brito, a senior at Bel Air High School who runs track and cross-country, organized the event in honor of his Aunt Holly, who left her abusive ex-husband with help from SARC’s counseling services and support from her family.

The experience made Brito realize “many victims of abuse feel they have nowhere to go, nowhere to turn, because they do not even know SARC exists.”

SARC is a Bel Air-based organization that supports victims of sexual violence, child abuse, stalking and domestic assault with a 24-hour helpline, legal advocacy program, 28-bed shelter and other services.

Through ”Holly’s Hope,” Brito said he hopes to let victims know that “there is a refuge, there is a sanctuary, there is harmony and that there is hope for them too.”

The 5K run and 1-mile walk will raise money for and awareness about SARC. People can register for the race here. It costs $25 to register in advance and $30 on race day.

Holly’s Hope will be at 9 a.m. and the 1-mile walk starts at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, Oct.12. The race begins on the Ma & Pa Trail at the Liriodendron Mansion, 502 W. Gordon Street, in Bel Air.

Anyone with concerns about domestic violence or sexual assault may contact SARC’s 24-hour helpline at 410-836-8430 for information about services available for themselves or a loved one.

Photo Credit: SARC