Walking for Change: WRAP Raises Awareness for Domestic Violence Prevention
It was a beautiful and sunny day for the Wo/Men’s Resource and Rape Assistance Program (WRAP) Domestic Violence Awareness Walkathon, which was held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, on the courthouse square in Bolivar. Although the crowd was small in number, the message Ms. Tamiko Talley, WRAP advocate for Hardeman County, shared was loud and clear to everyone! If you are experiencing domestic violence, ”WRAP is here to help!”
Domestic violence is typically a topic shrouded in darkness and secrecy. WRAP, a non-profit organization, brings the matter of domestic violence and abuse out into the open and encourages individuals to seek help. Some of the goals for the day of the walkathon were to bring awareness about domestic violence, empower those going through the experience, and to encourage survivors through their healing. Ms. Talley stressed that WRAP not only works with those who have escaped their abuser, but also provides support for those still living in domestic abuse situations.
“All of the services we offer are free and confidential. We aid the survivors in their journey towards healing through their traumatic situation The services we offer are free and confidential,” said Ms. Talley.
WRAP Domestic Violence Awareness Walkathon Photo Gallery
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Ms. Talley shared some statistics from Hardeman County.
“There were 201 domestic violence and sexual assault reports to law enforcement in Hardeman County in 2024,” said Ms. Talley, who noted those are just the ones, which were reported. “I want you to think about all of those cases that are not being reported!”
Michelle, a domestic abuse survivor, shared some powerful and encouraging words to those experiencing abuse and recovering. She also had a message for those looking from the outside in at someone who may find themselves in that situation.
“We aid the survivors in their journey towards healing. We can go to court with the survivors, help them file an order of protection against the abuser, and we show up at every court hearing they have. We encourage them, we empower them, we give them to tools, the training, the education they need. We also have a safe home. We are there for them,” said Ms. Talley, who .
Although the focus of the event was about a serious matter, there was fun had and smiles seen as individuals participated in the walkathon. Two teams were created and the winning team was determined by the one, which walked, not ran, around the courthouse twice in record time.
Ms. Talley shared some messages from people who attended the walkathon, which were written to encourage victims and survivors.
“Keep fighting!” . . . “Keep the faith!” . . . “Always Pray!” . . . “God will continue to bless you all!” . . . “You will get through this,” read Ms. Talley.
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