Murder Victim to be Remembered with 5K Walk

WOODBRIDGE, Va. — The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) will participate in the third annual No Woman, No Cry: Stop the Silence of Domestic Violence 5K Walk in memory of Jenny Vaughn-Bates on Saturday, Sept. 14th.

Bates was murdered in 2010 by her abusive husband, who then took his own life, in Prince William County, Va. The walk/run will be held at Potomac Senior High School in Dumfries, Virginia.

“Three years after her death we continue to struggle in our own ways. The depth of her loss is impossible to measure and on-going.” said Jaclyn Neham and Tracy Lane, co-chairs of No Woman, No Cry (NWNC). “Since then, we have learned that domestic violence is an epidemic in society affecting one in four women. Through this event, we hope to honor Jenny’s legacy and help those who feel they have no other options.”

“This 5K is a fitting tribute to the life and legacy of Jennifer Vaughn-Bates and all of the domestic violence victims who suffer in silence,” said Rene Renick, NNEDV’s Vice President. “We are proud to walk alongside Jenny’s loved ones and those who support ending all violence against women. Domestic violence affects so many, and I urge communities across the country to step up and become part of the solution.”

Unfortunately, domestic violence continues to make national headlines. On average in the U.S., three women are killed every day at the hands of a current or former intimate partner. Visit nnedv.org to learn how to take a stand in support of survivors and take action to end domestic violence.

Proceeds from the walk will benefit NNEDV and the Jenny Vaughn-Bates Memorial Trust Fund. Those interested can register in advance at www.nwnc.org for $25, children under 8 years old are free. On-site registration the day of the event (cash and checks accepted) will also be available for a fee of $30 per participant. Registration fees and donations are all tax deductible.