In order to increase awareness during Domestic Violence Month, Launching Hope will take place from 1 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8 at Nimby Pond, which is located at 11470 Hills Road in Buchanan.

This is a family-friendly event that includes a pumpkin chunking challenge, pumpkin decorating contest, bean bag toss, children’s games, live music, food, beverages and other activities.

Admission is $5 per person and additional charges may apply to certain activities.

New this year is the opportunity for groups to build a catapult and compete against other teams to win the pumpkin chunking challenge for distance and accuracy. Team rules and application are available online at www.cfsswmi.org orwww.launchinghope.org and must be submitted by Sept. 15.

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness month.

This event is an opportunity for the community to show their support of survivors of domestic violence, increase awareness in the community, and raise funds for Safe Shelter for Domestic Violence.

CFSSWMI originated locally in 1891 and is celebrating 125 years of service to the local communities. Safe Shelter for Domestic Violence, a program of CFSSWMI since 2008, provides safety and empowerment to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault by advocating for justice and equality while promoting diversity.