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By DONALD MOTTERN | Staff Writer

PELHAM – An annual walk that seeks to raise awareness and further the prevention of human trafficking will soon make its way back to Pelham.

This year’s walk will take place on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 9 a.m. to noon along the trails of the Pelham Dog Park Pavilion at 31-33 Belle Vista Mhp in Pelham.

The A21 Walk for Freedom event has been a recurring event in the city since its first outing in 2017. As in past years, this year’s walk will be hosted by Grace Ministries of Alabama in collaboration with A21.

“This is a slow, silent walk lasting about 35-40 minutes over an approximate 2-mile radius,” said Ann Tyler of Grace Ministries of Alabama.

Participants at this year’s walk will also have the opportunity to meet with leaders and activists within local nonprofit organizations that are involved in the fight against issues like domestic violence, sexual violence and human trafficking.

Materials informing the public on how to help, get involved and raise awareness will also be available during the free event.

“We believe that every step we take locally leaves footprints globally,” Tyler said. “Every dollar fundraised, every poster seen, every person made aware of the issue of human trafficking, adds up to one Global impact—a world where everyone is free.”

In recognition of this being the 10th year that A21 has organized such awareness walks, Grace Ministries of Alabama will also offer free food and a prize raffle during the event for all of those in attendance.

Those interested in participating in the walk are asked to register prior to the event and can do so by visiting A21.org/pelham.

Those with additional questions or who are seeking additional information can contact Tyler at 205-365-7052 or via email at ann@graceministries.life.

A21 is a nonprofit organization founded in 2008 with the mission of eliminating human trafficking and eradicating human slavery. Since their origin, they have since expanded efforts to 19 central locations of operations across 14 different countries.