BEVERLY — The feeling of accomplishment that follows a tough workout will be amplified Saturday for those participating in the fifth annual "Work Out to Wipe Out Domestic Violence."
Through a series of group fitness classes, the event raises money for A New Direction Beverly Morgan Park — known throughout the neighborhood as AND, said Jessica McCarihan, president of the charity's board.
The community event is the second-largest fundraiser of the year for A New Direction, which provides education and legal advocacy for families affected by domestic violence. About 90 percent of the clients are Beverly-area residents, McCarihan said.
"In no other community would you have the kind of support for something like this," McCarihan said Tuesday.
She said last year the event raised $10,000 for the local crisis counseling center. She hopes to top that figure this year by raising money through with group fitness classes held at 21 different venues throughout the area.
A suggested donation of $25 is asked for each workout, which is then donated in full to the Beverly-based charity, said McCarihan, adding that donations and registration can be completed online this year.
A New Direction opened in 2011 and continues to see a growing need for it services — all provided for free, McCarihan said.
Domestic violence is "happening to your neighbor. It's happening to your friend," she said.
The event is actually coordinated by the GFWC Beverly Hills Junior Woman's Club. The Beverly-based volunteer organization directs all proceeds to A New Direction, said McCarihan, a Beverly resident.
"For us, it is very validating to see the community come together," she said.
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