ROCHELLE — Cooler weather and bright sunshine graced the first ever Jen’s Walk Against Domestic Violence on Saturday near Atwood Park. About 75 family members and friends of Jennifer Underhill walked in her honor while raising awareness of domestic violence.
Organizers Sharon Brimhall and Amber Brimhall said Kenny’s, McDonalds, Central Bank and 3M sponsored the event, which raised $3,000 benefitting HOPE of Ogle County. A total of 115 people registered for the event.
“Thank you to the generous support of many local businesses and to all who braved the cold to walk for Jen, yourself or someone you know affected by domestic violence. Jen’s Walk was a success in its first year,” said Sharon Brimhall, family member of Underhill. “Thank you to the businesses who donated to our silent auction:  Dave’s Muffler and Brakes, Shell, Scentsy (Teri Eul), Hub City Barbershop, TNT Motors, Mary Kay, Jillian Herrmann-Wise, Flight Deck, Beauty Villa, Pink Zebra (Beth Kvool), T-Byrd Lanes, Holiday Inn Express, 31, Tonica Smith, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Cypress House, El Sol, Glo Wellness, Fit Hub, Sunshine Bakery, Family Video, Alfano’s, Lifeworks Photography, A & M Airsports, Ashley at Ricco’s Salon and Big R.”
Brimhall said that there will be additional t-shirts available; anyone interested is asked to reach out to her, Amber or to Tonia Underhill through Facebook.
“I want to take this time to say thank you to Sharon and Amber for doing an amazing job with the walk in honor of Jen, you ladies rock!” said Tonia Underhill, Jennifer’s sister. “Thank you to everyone that braved the cooler temps and made it out for the walk and to the HOPE shelter for doing what they do for domestic violence and support for victims. What a great turnout, I can’t wait for next year, bigger yet! Thank you again for the support this community has given to my family. I love you all.”