Why I walk: Todd Karges

Tell us a bit about yourself:
I’m Todd Karges and I’ve been participating in Walk A Mile since 2012.  I’d been supporting friends walking for a few years prior to that and decided I wanted to be more involved.  This year I started working out at Motus Training Studio, a gym whose mission and values include inclusivity and diversity.  When I told my friends there about the walk, they were immediately interested in joining. That’s how Marco, Jamie, Ryan and I became the Swole Sisters.  We’re excited to be able to make a difference.

Why is gender-based violence and violence against women an important issue for you to take action on?
Gender-based violence isn’t a women’s issue, it’s a human issue.  The work that White Ribbon does to undo a twisted power imbalance that leads to violence against women is essential.  We all know women who have been victimized, and that’s a great reason to participate. We also recognize that when this kind of crap stops, everybody will benefit and we’ll live in a better place.

Why is Walk a Mile in Her Shoes important to you and how did you first get involved?
I’ve been involved for almost a decade, and the rest of the Swole Sisters are enthusiastic newcomers to the cause.  We all know that education and outreach are the most effective ways to change people, and that it’s a long process. The work that White Ribbon does is so important and we all knew we had to help however we could.

Tell us about your team and how how you got them to participate in the walk this year:
The Swole Sisters came together naturally, and it literally took no convincing.  When my friends from Motus heard what the event was about, they immediately wanted to participate.  White Ribbon’s mission aligns so perfectly with what we strive to bring to our gym experience. We all recognize our role in opening up cultures and changing people’s perspectives.   I’d say the Swole Sisters already existed. We just needed a place to put this energy.

What are you looking forward to most about this year’s walk?
Every year, I approach the walk with a bit of apprehension.  The shoes are not comfortable and a mile is a long way to go in them.  And every year, I am lifted by the energy and enthusiasm of the event: participants, spectators, everybody.  Mostly I’m looking forward to helping White Ribbon achieve their fundraising goal.
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Todd Karges is participating in White Ribbon’s Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, presented by DSW Canada, The Shoe Company and Shoe Warehouse, taking place on Wednesday May 29, 2019 at 11:45am, David Pecaut Square, 215 King Street West, in Toronto. Donate to The Swole Sisters at: whiteribbon.akaraisin.com/wamihs2019/theswolesisters
​Visit www.walkamiletoronto.ca to register, participate, and or donate.  Thank you for your support of White Ribbon’s work to engage men and boys in promoting healthy masculinities and ending gender-based violence.  

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