When Jesse came to her first Walk for Change in 2008, it looked very different from the event we know today. Over the years, the route has changed from the CambridgeSide Galleria to Arsenal Park and now to Constitution Beach. The crowd has grown, from dozens to hundreds. It went virtual during the height of the COVID pandemic. The event has evolved, with bigger stages, food trucks, and raffles. But through all of that change, one thing has remained constant. The community.
Jesse, who now attends BARCC’s events as the Emergency Services Programs Director, has dedicated her career to ensuring that survivors and their loved ones are always supported.
“I have found that sometimes folks think that doing this work must feel like we’re Eeyore with a sad rain cloud over our heads all the time. There are moments that can feel like that for sure, but there is also so much resilience and care and love – and yes even joy – that goes into this work that I think is really captured in the essence of the Walk.”
For Jesse, the Walk for Change isn’t just another event. It serves as a reminder of why this work matters. Despite all the changes, the one thing that has never wavered is the overwhelming sense of connection.
The Walk for Change has a way of bringing people together. Jesse normally walks alongside a large group of her friends who come out to support BARCC, but even in the years when her friends couldn’t make it she never felt alone.
One of the things that makes this possible is the “Walk with Me” program. Those who come alone can find a new friend to walk the 2.8 miles with, turning what might have been a solitary experience into a shared one. Young children, running around with their face painted or sleeping in strollers, cross the finish line alongside grandparents. People bring their coworkers, their families, their loved ones—all united by the same purpose. To show up for survivors. To make their voices heard. To walk towards a brighter future.
“You get to be together with all these folks who have decided that this is how they want to spend their Sunday morning – together celebrating.”
And then, of course, there are the dogs. For Jesse (and many other attendees) it’s always a highlight seeing the four-legged friends sporting BARCC bandanas or decked out in their finest Walk attire.
“My own doggo had come for many years begrudgingly sporting BARCC Walk shirts and bandanas and looking absolutely adorable.”
Now the Walk isn’t always easy. Anyone familiar with New England weather in April knows it can be unpredictable. Jesse has walked through freezing winds, rain, and ankle-deep mud. But no matter the weather, the spirit of the event never falters (but keep your fingers crossed for sun on April 27th!).
“Even in times where our signs ended up all drippy and we were shivering we still had fun. The time to connect with each other in celebration is worth it no matter the weather.”
For Jesse, this event is more than just a fundraiser. It’s a time to refuel. One of the most moving parts of the Walk is the Clothesline Project. The project is an art display that features a collection of hand-decorated shirts, created by survivors to share their experiences through. Each one tells a story. Every year, Jesse takes the time to read them and absorb the weight of these voices.
“This event really helps fill my cup to be able to continue to do the work that needs to be done.”
No matter how much it grows, the heart of the Walk will always stay the same. Love, joy, resilience, and community—that’s what makes the Walk for Change special.
Because there is something truly powerful about standing side by side with hundreds of people, rain or shine, connected by one shared mission. It’s a movement. It’s a celebration. It’s a promise that none of us are alone.
Walk with us on April 27th. We hope to see you there.
