On Sunday, Oct. 12, the town of Bel Air showed their support towards victims of domestic violence by participating in Holly’s Hope 5k at the Liriodendron mansion.

Holly’s Hope 5k was founded by BAHS Senior Ethan Brito in support of his Aunt Holly, a survivor of spousal abuse. After escaping from her abusive partner, Holly reached out to SARC, an organization that supports victims of domestic violence. SARC stands for Safety, Awareness, Research, and Change. SARC provides counseling, community outreach and educational services, safe housing, and a variety of other resources for women.

Ethan Brito is a varsity Cross Country Captain, the treasurer of National Honor Society, as well as a Senior Student Government senator.

“Even though my main goal was to raise money for SARC monetarily, I also want to spread awareness of domestic violence in the community as well as show victims in hiding that there is help waiting,” he stated about the event.

Holly’s Hope had over 100 participants; an astounding number for a first-time race. Typically, first-year races only make about $700 towards the benefiting organization, but Holly’s Hope was able to donate over $5000 dollars to SARC, thanks to Bel Air citizens and the amount of sponsors that were able to cover race expenses.

Bobcat Nation should be proud of the work one of their very own seniors did for their community, as well as being a part of a town that is willing to make such a positive difference towards a negative situation.