Concordians Invited to Lace Up for Freedom in May 19 Walk-a-Thon

Did you know there are more than 30 million slaves in the world, right now today? That’s more than at any other time in history. But there’s something you can do to fight the plague of human trafficking – and it’s happening right here in Concord.

The New England Chapter of Durga Tree International – a charity that helps survivors of modern slavery – is calling for your help in a local walk “Lacing Up for Freedom” on Saturday, May 19^th from 9:30 to Noon. This walk-a-thon raises funds to support global programs that empower survivors of exploitation and human trafficking. These programs change the lives of many – offering them support, education, hope, and FREEDOM.

Last year, our local community raised $7500 - and the national walk raised more than $80,000. Those funds were used for impactful programs - including the launch of an academy in Thailand that saved 13 teenage girls from being sold into ‘marriage’. Now, those girls are free – and are making amazing progress in becoming artisan jewelry makers as part of the Bloom intensive training program. They are free from the threat of being trafficked, and they are learning the skills they need to be independent and care for themselves and their families. That’s the power of people coming together to help!

This year’s walk in Concord will start at the Old Manse and wrap up at the Louisa May Alcott Orchard House. Along the way, we will stop at 5 key sites in Concord with a link to our abolitionist history (and one of our volunteers will tell us about the history of that place at each stop). At the end of the walk, you’ll be treated to lunch – and there will be prizes for the top fund raisers.

Registering is easy!

1. visit DurgaTreeInternational.org/WALK and click “Register to Walk”

2. Click “Join Team” and select “New England Freedom Fighters”

3. Register as a “Hometown Hero” walker

Adult registration is $35 and there is a discounted Youth/Student registration of just $20. Walkers are even encouraged to bring their four-footed companions along! Dogs can register and fundraise for $15 (you'd be surprised how much those cute pups can raise for a good cause!).

Will you answer the call and be a part of this year’s Lacing Up for Freedom event? You can earn community service hours, win fun prizes (including a swag bag of goodies), AND be part of the solution to a terrible problem. Please take action. Innocent people around the world need your help to escape the horrors of modern slavery.

For more information, visit durgatreeinternational.org or call 617-515-9797 and ask for Jennifer Schünemann, the New England Chapter President. Please reach out to walk, volunteer, or sponsor this important event - and thank you!