BUCHANAN TOWNSHIP — Polly’s Place, Niles celebrated its upcoming re-opening and marked Domestic Violence Awareness Month Sunday with the first of several fundraisers, the First Annual Pedal for Polly’s Place.
The faith-based center for domestic violence and related abuse, which is re-opening Oct. 17, held a 20-mile scenic bike ride from Garden Hills Farms in Buchanan Township, on Rangeline Road and along the St. Joseph River and Fernwood Nature Preserve. An after-party with prize drawings was also held. Entry for the race was $15. All proceeds from the event benefited Polly’s Place.
“We’re really excited to be up and running,” said Paul Leonard, director of marketing and development.
The shelter has recently announced it is upping its fundraising efforts, which include the bike ride.
The next fundraiser is the Polly’s Place Annual Fashion Show and silent auction Nov. 6 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Bell Building, 305 North Third St., Niles. Refreshments will be provided. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 at the door. For tickets, call 683-6523.
Other fundraisers will include a vintage car show, its annual anniversary dinner and a community picnic at Riverfront Park.
Polly’s Place, Niles, an affiliate of the Polly’s Place Network, closed when a large amount of money was embezzled from the non-profit in 2010. The building was also vandalized.
Established in Niles in 1997, Polly’s Place offers women and children a safe retreat for up to eight weeks; counseling; education; sponsorships for women; and legal/resource advocacy.
To learn more about Polly’s Place, visit www.pollysplaceniles.org.