SWAN QUARTER — A walk/run event in Hyde County has local residents gearing up to raise money and awareness for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Hyde County Hotline, a local shelter for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, will host its inaugural “Race Across the Lake” event on April 25, bringing participants to walk or run a 5K or 10K course that begins on N.C. Highway 94 in Fairfield and extends across Lake Mattamuskeet. The paved course, straight and flat, is a seven-mile route one way with mile markers at the 5K and 10K points, said HCH Prevention Services Coordinator Cynthia Gibbs. Registration kicks off at 8 a.m. and lasts until 9 a.m. when the race begins. Registration fee, which includes a registration packet, refreshments and participation in the walk/run, costs $25 in cash or checks payable to Hyde County Hotline.

Gibbs said participants have a choice of how far they wish to walk. They have an option of walking less than 5K, 5K, 10K or the full seven miles, which is Lake Mattamuskeet Road. The event is a new way the nonprofit can raise money, Gibbs said.

“We’re always trying to come up with ideas that will help us raise funds and awareness to serve victims of domestic violence and sexual assault,” Gibbs said. “The course is across Lake Mattamuskeet Road so it will be a very nice, scenic route for them to walk or run. We’re going to have a marker at every mile so people can determine how far they want to walk.”

The nonprofit is also seeking volunteers to man water stations during the race, Gibbs said. The organization depends on volunteers for much of its outreach and operations, as well as raising awareness for its mission.

“We have volunteers that are actually purchasing and supplying water stations with water,” Gibbs said. “Our volunteers are extremely important to our program. They help make our awareness campaign successful, and they work very hard. We are so appreciative for all our volunteers. Not only are they donating their time, but they’re donating their resources, as well.”

Swan Quarter Volunteer Fire Department will host a benefit fundraiser from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., which is an option for participants, who are looking for somewhere to eat, following the race, Gibbs said.

For more information, contact the Hyde County Hotline at 252-925-2502.