Craig Youdale, NC’s Dean of Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies is gearing up to march with a mission in decked-out, heeled pink crocs.
As the new ambassador for the Gillian’s Place 18th annual Walk a Mile in HER Shoes fundraiser, Youdale, and a team of NC supporters, are set to strut in high heels around the Niagara Pen Centre in St. Catharines to take a stand against violence towards women. This year’s symbolic march will take place on Saturday, October 19, inviting men and male-identifying allies, along with family, friends and supporters, to walk and raise awareness and funds for this crucial cause.
Walk a Mile in HER Shoes is more than just a march; it is a powerful statement against gender-based violence, raising vital funds for local gender-based violence shelter, Gillian’s Place, and increasing awareness of this pressing issue in Niagara and beyond.
Youdale has long supported Gillian’s Place, both personally and professionally. He has led College partnerships through NC’s annual pancake fundraiser in support of Gillian’s Place’s Wrapped in Courage Campaign and has organized Christmas dinners for the shelter, prepared by NC Chef Professors and students.
Youdale’s ambassador role involves learning about gender-based violence, raising funds, promoting the fundraiser, encouraging registrations, and participating in promotional events.
That’s why, when approached by Gillian’s Place to serve as an ambassador this year, Youdale was eager to take on the opportunity.
“I have always felt passionate about supporting the issue of gender-based violence,” said Youdale. “Next year will mark my thirtieth year in post-secondary education, and during that time, I have recognized this issue remains a significant problem. Being given the opportunity to bring more attention to this cause and rally my network and the College community to support this vital service is a true honour for me.”
For the fundraiser, Gillian’s Place seeks ambassadors who are well-respected in the community for their leadership and support of various deserving initiatives. Youdale is one of six ambassadors for this year’s initiative.
“We are incredibly thankful for our longstanding partnership with Niagara College,” said Graeme Dargavel, Director of Development & Communications at Gillian’s Place. “This year, we are excited to welcome Craig as a Walk a Mile in HER Shoes Ambassador, expanding the College’s support to the men’s march to end violence against women. We are certain with him leading NC’s march, a wave of life-changing impact will happen on October 19.”
As an ambassador, Youdale hopes to inspire the NC community to join the cause and help raise funds to support women in need. He is most passionate about being a strong advocate, spreading awareness and encouraging others to recognize the prevalence of gender-based violence in our community and beyond.
“I know that some people still turn a blind eye to this dark part of our society, and helping to shed light on it is what’s most important to me,” he said.
Youdale will join the Niagara College WALK STARS team and community members for the October 19 walk at the Niagara Pen Centre, proudly sporting his heeled pink crocs.
Youdale will lead a team representing NC, called the Niagara College WALK STARS, at the October 19. The NC community can support the team by donating or registering to participate in the walk through the College team’s website here.
The NC WALK STARS have already raised over $1,600 to help Gillian’s Place reach their fundraising goal of $125,000.
“These funds extend a vital lifeline to survivors facing abuse in Niagara,” said Dargavel.
Youdale’s ambassador role involves learning about gender-based violence, raising funds, promoting the fundraiser, encouraging registrations, and participating in promotional events. As an ambassador, Youdale also signed the Gillian’s Place Men’s Pledge, which includes a commitment to recognize patriarchy and actively work to end gender-based violence.
Earlier this month, Youdale toured the Gillian’s Place shelter gaining firsthand insight into their services and learning about the significant demand for support through their crisis center. He will also participate in community events for the fundraiser, including walking with Gillian’s Place in the Grape and Wine Parade on Saturday, September 28, and a puck drop at the Niagara Ice Dogs game on October 6.
Donations can be made until the final fundraiser date on October 31. To learn more about the Walk a Mile in HER Shoes fundraiser and ways to support, visit the Gillian’s Place website here. For information on registering for the walk or donating to the Niagara College WALK STARS, visit the team’s website here.
We hope to see you join this important community cause and stand together in the fight to end violence against women.
