Register for the fourth annual Purple Run

The University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security (DPSS), in partnership with the Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office, is hosting the fourth annual Purple Run, a 5k run/walk, October 27 on the University’s North Campus to benefit SafeHouse Center.

SafeHouse Center provides free and confidential services to survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault throughout Washtenaw County.

“We are proud to co-host this event for the fourth year in a row to support SafeHouse’s mission and to ensure that survivors have a safe place to seek assistance,” said U-M Police Chief Robert Neumann. “SafeHouse is an invaluable resource for our community.”

Domestic violence can affect anyone—and the University of Michigan community is no exception. According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately one in four women and one in nine men have experienced intimate partner violence at some point in their lifetime.

“In addition to providing free and confidential services, SafeHouse Center allows survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault to regain hope,” said Barbara Niess-May, Executive Director of SafeHouse Center. “We are grateful the community comes together to support our mission for the Purple Run fundraiser.”

DPSS officers within the Special Victims Unit, who are specially trained to help victims of intimate partner violence navigate the criminal justice system, have played a big role in the creation and success of the fundraiser.

The family-friendly event will feature exhibits from Huron Valley Ambulance’s Andy the Ambulance, local law enforcement K9 units and live music by The Soul Practitioners. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. and the race begins at 9 a.m.

Registration is still open, visit purplerunannarbor.org to sign up and help us run domestic violence out of town!