The Williams School proudly kicked off its community outreach initiatives this fall by participating in the annual Safe Futures Safe Walk on October 3 in Waterford, Connecticut. The event supports Safe Futures, a nonprofit organization dedicated to “stopping abuse, restoring hope, and saving lives of those impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, trafficking, elder abuse, and child abuse in Southeastern Connecticut.”
This year’s Walk marked more than just another calendar event for Williams—it was a renewed commitment to a long-standing partnership. The school has collaborated with Safe Futures for several years through its Holiday Angels program, which provides gifts and support to local families in need during the holiday season. Now, the partnership has expanded to include active student participation in awareness events like the Safe Walk, which had over twenty Williams students participate.
“It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to hear the testimonial statement of a survivor who spoke at the Walk,” said Tricia Walsh, Associate Director of Outreach and Engagement. “A firsthand account of the trauma domestic violence inflicts—not only on the victim but on the entire family—was deeply meaningful and impactful. I hope every student left feeling like they contributed to something bigger than themselves.”
This event also aligns with the Williams Community Service Club’s overarching goal for the year: to increase local engagement and raise awareness about important social issues. The Walk served as a powerful learning experience for students while allowing them to support a critical cause.
“Safe Futures is an important partner for The Williams School,” Walsh added. “We recognize and value their mission of stopping abuse, restoring hope, and saving lives of those impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, trafficking, elder abuse, and child abuse. We’re proud to support their work—not just through donations, but by helping to amplify their voice in the community.”
Looking ahead, Williams will continue to build on this momentum. The next planned outreach event is the Miracle League Easter Seals Trunk or Treat on October 25 in East Lyme, where students will once again have an opportunity to connect with and give back to the community in meaningful ways.
Through initiatives like these, Williams remains dedicated to fostering empathy, awareness, and active citizenship among its students—one step, one walk, and one partnership at a time.
