Walk A Mile: Reigniting the conversation around gender-based violence

According to the Government of Alberta report entitled 10-year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence, published in May 2025, there were 385 cases of intimate partner violence reported for every 100,000 Albertans in 2023.

That translates, as the report notes, to around 18,800 cases across the province annually, and places Alberta slightly above the national average.

“Gender-based violence in 2026 continues to be a major societal issue, especially in our community. Our agency is very busy with phone calls and walk-ins from people requiring assistance,” shared Laura Cowell, executive director at The Outreach Centre.

“This event is critical this year as funding uncertainty remains high for lots of non-profits. Every dollar we raise makes a very big impact.”

(Image Credit: rdnewsNOW/Josh Hall)

The centre has a specific program for intimate partner violence (IPV), which includes services such as case management, risk assessment, safety planning, housing resources, and more.

For more information regarding IPV support and/or to be connected to an Outreach worker, call 403-347-2480.

“This is an important opportunity for walkers to not just walk, but continue the talk afterwards, and break down the stigma,” added Cowell.

“Gender-based violence and family violence affect everyone. It’s not specific to females; but the important message is that once we’re done walking, let’s keep talking.”

Scotia Wealth Management’s The Zukiwsky Group is the lead sponsor for ‘Walk A Mile,’ with Branch Manager Dion Zukiwsky explaining why his team values being involved.

“Creating awareness around gender-based violence is a unique opportunity to bring people together in the community,” he said.

“The walk is the first big step. We want to build on it and the amazing work The Outreach Centre does.”

Fundraising totals weren’t readily available at the time of the event.

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by Josh Hall

Walk A Mile: Reigniting the conversation around gender-based violence

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