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Date: 8/1/2022
SPRINGFIELD – Sheriff Nick Cocchi recently announced the annual Sheriff’s Shuffle 5K race/walk will return after a two-year hiatus and will be raising funds to support the YWCA of Western Massachusetts and its program to assist the victims of domestic violence.
Cocchi noted there has been an increase in domestic violence cases due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“With the [coronavirus] pandemic, so many issues have arisen,” Cocchi said.
Davis Snow, the member of the sheriff’s staff who is organizing the event, said, “It’s just important, we want people to know that all are welcomed [runners and walkers].”
Elizabeth Dineen, executive director of the YWCA of Western Massachusetts, said this is the organization’s first fundraiser since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. She asked people to consider donating whether or not they participate in the race.
To date, $80,000 has been raised.
Dineen confirmed that incidences of domestic violence have “gone through the roof.”
Cocchi said the shuffle began in 1999 and raised money for various charities. The Sheriff’s Department is now partnering with the YWCA.
The run/walk is Oct. 16 and registration for the race/walk is open through the day of the event, with a registration cost of $35 per person. The last day to register and get a free T-shirt is Oct. 3.
Day-of-race registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and will take place inside the Elks Lodge, 250 Whitney Ave., Holyoke. The 1.5-mile walking course is along the scenic Ashley Reservoir in Holyoke. Both the run and the walk start at 10 a.m.
Refreshments, food, awards, a raffle with dozens of prizes and live entertainment will be provided by the acoustic rock duo CO2 immediately following the run.
For more information, to register or just to make a donation, visit: https://runsignup.com/SheriffsShuffle5k.