HUNTINGTON, W. Va. (WSAZ) -- A crowd gathered for a one mile walk in Ritter Park Saturday morning to celebrate Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the 30th anniversary of Branches Shelter in Huntington.

It was a time to reflect for some walkers. Becky, who chose not to share her last name, shared her story.

"Five years ago I got out of a domestic violent relationship," says Becky. "I went to counseling through Branches. I don't think my healing time would have been as quick without the counseling, so I was really excited to hear about today's walk because I wanted to be able to give back."

Young and old came out to help raise awareness by donating their time and money to upgrade the facilities at Branches.

"We are working towards updating our kids playroom," says Amanda Weiss, coordinator of the event. "We have a lot of children who come to the shelter with their moms and we just want to buy new toys and revamp that space for them."

It was a perfect day to give hope to an important cause.

"It's great to see people come out and support such a great cause. It really helps you know that it's not such a taboo issue. It's not being kept behind closed doors. We're out here celebrating the fact that we're helping people and bringing this issue to light," said Weiss.

Becky says getting out and getting past an abusive relationship isn't easy.

"I think there's more people living in these relationships than people realize. I want women to know that they can get out of that relationship and they can start a new life because I did, and if I can do that they can too," Becky said.

With the right steps, and the support of the Branches' family behind her, Becky was able to heal and now focus on giving back.