Walk honors late Howell teen

On Sept. 12 at 3 p.m. on the boardwalk at Pier Village in Long Branch, Prevention First will be hosting the fourth annual Amanda Faith Reo Memorial Walk.

The event aims to raise $10,000 in Reo’s name to support Prevention First’s violence and substance abuse prevention programs, and to raise awareness among teens about the dangers of dating abuse.

At this year’s event, prizes will be given to the fastest walker, the walker who goes the longest distance, the individual who helps raise the most money, and the team that helps raise the most money.

Walk participants can form teams of five so they can walk alongside of their friends, family and co-workers and reach their fundraising goals more easily.

Walkers can also get sponsored this year to help reach fundraising goals. For every mile a participant or team walks, sponsors pledge to donate a certain amount in his or her name. There will also be a snail race, with prizes for first, second and third place, and a choir for entertainment.

According to a press release, Reo was a vibrant 17-year-old from Howell. She died on Oct. 29, 2003. She was a soulful young woman with a great sense of humor, and continues to be greatly missed by her family and friends.

According to the press release, Prevention First began the 5-mile walk in 2007 to commemorate Reo. First-year attendance included more than 125 participants and approximately $7,000 was raised.

Pier Village is at One Chelsea Avenue in Long Branch. Participants can register online at www.preventionfirst.net. Registration fees are $20 per adult and $10 per child (10 and under). Sponsorships for this event are also available online.

For further information, contact Michelle Cicalese at 732-663-1800, ext. 219, or visit www.preventionfirst.net.

Prevention First is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency and registered New Jersey professional development provider, providing students, parents and professionals with research-based prevention education programs to help children successfully handle difficult everyday situations as well as extraordinary challenges such as violence and substance abuse, according to the press release.