This Saturday, October 21, at 10 a.m. at the Hummel Park West Wing, the Plainfield Police Department is hosting its second Tour de Quaker, recognizing Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
“Being that October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, our goal is to raise awareness and to connect victims of domestic violence with the necessary resources, such as Sheltering Wings of Hendricks County,” said School Resource Officer Josh Jellison. “We are collecting any donations needed for Sheltering Wings during this event.”
Jellison recalled the past Tour de Quaker, where he had a chance to connect with the community for a good cause.
“My favorite memory of this event was getting out on bicycles with people from the town of Plainfield and being able to enjoy this community bicycle ride together,” said Jellison. “In years to come, I look forward to participating with local businesses and growing this event each time. Plainfield Police Department will be planning a larger scaled Tour de Quaker for May of 2024.”
The most important part of this event is the awareness it raises to help victims of domestic violence. “Domestic violence awareness is a very important topic that often gets overlooked,” said Jellison. Victims feel stuck in a domestic situation with an abusive partner because they are afraid that they can’t survive financially or otherwise, and often, domestic abuse can escalate.”
Jellison encouraged anyone who enjoys bike rides and/or wishes to support Sheltering Wings to join the police department on the trails, advising them to dress warm and wear purple for domestic violence awareness. To anyone suffering from domestic violence, Jellison said, “Don’t be afraid to reach out to your local law enforcement. There are resources available to keep you on your feet and help with victim assistance.”
Story by Tiba Altower