Got Your Back Sista’s annual community event, I Run For Her, is back for its fifth year, taking place on 13 October. The event, which has grown into a national campaign and sponsored by Hunter businesses, encourages participants to walk or run to show solidarity with victim-survivors of domestic violence.
Melissa Histon, founder of Got Your Back Sista, highlighted the importance of the event. “One in four women are victim-survivors of domestic violence. What if it was your daughter, mother, or sister? We run so that every woman knows she has somewhere safe to turn for support,” Melissa said.
This year’s event will see significant involvement from Hunter-based businesses. Allambi Care, a key sponsor, has been a passionate supporter for several years, with a dedicated group of employees participating annually. This year, they’ve shared their commitment in a moving video featuring, Newcastle local, Paige Bush, who is returning for her fourth year as a participant and has been named an event advocate for 2024.
“Paige’s connection to the cause and her ongoing support of the campaign is inspiring, and her perspective as an advocate adds a personal touch to the initiative,” Melissa said.
The event is supported by presenting partner The Lady Shake, alongside other local sponsors including Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group (NCIG), Ampcontrol, One Rail, and Grace Family Law Solicitors. Community partners HIC Services, Charlestown Square, and Australian Community Media have also thrown their weight behind the campaign.
The format allows individuals, friends, businesses, and community organisations to get involved by hosting their own walk or run. Participants can choose their own location, start time, and distance, and manage their fundraising efforts. All proceeds will go directly to Got Your Back Sista, helping to provide essential resources for women and children to rebuild their lives after domestic violence.
With a number of corporate groups already signed up, Hunter businesses are again leading the charge. Companies like Presence Real Estate, Marketown Health, and Women in Property Newcastle have formed teams, while LJ Hooker Dudley | Redhead, led by official advocate Tegan O’Doherty, continues to champion the cause.
IMAGE | Paige Bush named an event advocate for 2024.
