MIDDLETOWN, Conn; May 6, 2015: In 2014 46,750 domestic violence victims were served in Connecticut, but most domestic violence incidents go unreported. On May 16th, 2015, motorcycle riders from across the state will ride through Middlesex County to show their support for these victims during an organized charity ride benefiting New Horizons Domestic Violence Service.
This inaugural ride – “Victory Over Domestic Violence” – is expecting to bring together almost 100 cause-oriented bikers and passengers. All proceeds raised from this event, including the entry fee of $25 per bike and rider and $15 for a passenger, will support New Horizons, a 24 hour operational non-profit organization that provides services to more than 1,500 female, male and child victims of domestic abuse each year.
The ride begins at 10:30am at the Tavern on 66 in East Hampton, where participants will assemble in convoy to ride to Pizza Works in Old Saybrook, where free pizza and soft drinks will be served to all registered riders. The ride will take participants through Middlesex County using scenic Route 154 along the Connecticut River. For more information about the event, or to register, please visit http://newhorizonsdv.com/Events. Participants may also register on the day of the event.
“New Horizons staff is proud to ride with a diverse group of people from our community that has chosen to take a stand against domestic violence. I encourage you to join us, if not on the ride then at the start or the finish line to show your support and recognize the importance of being safe at home,” said Program Director Michele Waldner.
This is the newest event organized by New Horizons staff, to shed more light on a problem that too often goes unreported. In October, the agency will host the 2nd annual “Knock Out Domestic Violence” fundraiser, in partnership with 9Rounds Kickbox Fitness Middletown.
For over 30 years, Community Health Center, Inc. (CHC) has operated New Horizons Domestic Violence Shelter, a 24/7 emergency shelter for victims fleeing domestic abuse. The shelter is one element of a comprehensive approach to intimate partner violence (IPV) that also includes community education, support groups, individual counseling, court advocacy and referrals to CHC’s clinical provider teams. New Horizons’ staff members are part of the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence where they advocate for ongoing advancement of legislation and policy that protect the health and interests of victims. A 24/7 confidential hotline service is also available through the program. New Horizons serves the towns of- Middletown, Middlefield, Cromwell, Portland, East Hampton, Durham, Haddam, Chester, East Haddam, Killingworth, Deep River, Old Saybrook, Essex, Clinton and Westbrook. For more information about New Horizons please visit www.newhorizonsdv.com.