Fundraiser Spikes Support

MU hosted a fund-raising event for the Panzi Foundation USA, a nonprofit t organization that provides support to the women of the Democratic Republic of Congo who suffer conditions of humanitarian crisis and ongoing war. The first-ever "Walk a Mile in Her Shoes" on March 16 featured volunteers parading for a mile—in a pair of lipstick red spike heels. Dr. Amanda Caleb, Dr. Rebecca Steinberger and Dr. Amanda Van Lanen organized the benefit to raise funds through sponsorship while garnering awareness for the foundation. Dr. Lee Ann deReus, president of the Panzi Foundation USA Board, spoke to participants and the community after the mile-long walk was completed. Discussion focused on the conditions of women in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the struggles they face as a gender in the war-torn country.

"This is a group we really want to help,'' said Dr. Caleb. "We are also working to identify social service organizations in Northeastern Pennsylvania, like Ruth's Place, that we can give back to through our future ‘Walk a Mile in Her Shoes' events.''