TL/DR –
A five-mile walk in Michigan aims to connect Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti while raising funds for The Dispute Resolution Center’s restorative justice program. The program offers victims and survivors of crime an alternative to the traditional criminal legal system, enabling their voices to be heard and allowing those who have done harm to make amends. The walk, which also offers a shorter 1.5-mile option, will culminate in a post-walk celebration with free food, speeches, art activities, drumming and a wisdom circle at the Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church.
Ypsilanti’s Unity Walk to Support the Dispute Resolution Center’s Restorative Justice Program
On Saturday, a five-mile walk plans to link Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, in a bid to raise money for The Dispute Resolution Center’s Restorative Justice Program. This program provides victims and survivors of crime the platform to voice their experiences while offering perpetrators the chance to make amends to society outside of the traditional legal system. It provides a safe, confidential space for discussion, holding both parties accountable.
The program operates smoothly thanks to experienced volunteers. These volunteers assist individuals in the program to address deeper issues such as trauma and adverse life circumstances.
This weekend’s fundraising event offers a choice between a five-mile walk and a 1.5-mile walk. The longer walk commences at 10 a.m. at United Way for Southeastern Michigan in Ann Arbor, while the shorter walk begins at 11:30 a.m. from Ypsilanti Community High School.
For post-walk entertainment, Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church, located at 1043 W Michigan Ave, will host a celebration with free food, speakers, art activities, drumming, and a wisdom circle starting around noon.
The annual Unity Walk is a result of a partnership between The Dispute Resolution Center and The Association for Youth Empowerment. The walk supports the DRC’s Restorative Justice Program that assists both youths and adults involved in low-level, nonviolent crimes. The program keeps these individuals out of the legal system, providing them with the necessary services to move forward in life, as stated by The Dispute Resolution Center Executive Director Belinda Dulin.
Click here to register for the Unity Walk. The walk is coordinated by the Dispute Resolution Center and Ypsilanti’s Brown Chapel AME Church.
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