KAANAPALI – The second annual “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” event is slated at Whalers Village on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 10 a.m. to noon.

Join the West Maui Domestic Violence Task Force and stand up to end the vicious cycle of abusive behavior.

“This is a men’s march to benefit the women of West Maui,” task force member Renee Ward explained.

“Domestic violence is something that can happen to any woman regardless of where she lives, works or lifestyle.

“The statistics in West Maui continue to rise,” Ward advised. “Last year, in just a nine-month period, there were 535 charges of abuse incidents in Lahaina.”

Napili resident Don White will be marching on Saturday. He encouraged others to support the crusade.

“We know it’s out there,” he commented. “We may see it in public sometimes, and I think how awful it must be in their homes.”

“Please support this event,” Ward agreed. “Encourage the man in your life, brothers, fathers, friends and your sons to join in this cause.”

Lynn Gottwald, task force event organizer, reminded the Lahaina News that, in reality, “it is not a mile – just a short lap around center stage at Whalers Village.”

The list of prizes is long and impressive, including a one-night stay at Kaanapali Beach Hotel and tickets to the Sunday brunch; one year free parking validation from Whalers Village; two prizes from Honolulu Cookie Company; and two nights at The Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort.

Gift certificates were generously donated by the following community-minded businesses: Napili Coffee Store, Napa Auto Parts, the Hardware Store, Paradise Grill, Roy’s, China Bowl Asian Cuisine, Maui Surfboards, Zensations, Dollie’s Pub and Caf, Sea House Restaurant, Kapalua Spa, Plantation House, Iron Imu BBQ, Maui Marriott.

To be eligible for prizes and giveaways, participants pay a $10 registration fee; spectators offer a $10 donation.

Heels are provided by Women Helping Woman.

“Walk” sponsors are Sephora, Givensell Marketing Group, Women Helping Women, KONI, H Hawaii Media, Whalers Village and AAAAA Rent A Space.

“H Hawaii Media believes in giving back to the community and Women Helping Women,” General Manager Debbie Probst said.

Event emcee is Joe Hawkins of KONI radio.

There will be face-painting and a balloon twister for the kids.

There is free parking validation offered to walkers and a 25 percent discount to Hula Grill, Leilani’s on the Beach and Maui Fish & Pasta for breakfast or lunch the day of the march.

“AAAAA (Rent A Space) will have a van parked near the entrance (of the parking lot) for any donations the public may want to bring for the shelter,” Gottwald added.

For more information, call 661-7111 or e-mail walkamile@whwmui.net.