SALEM, Ore. — April 28, 2026 — The 14th annual CrossWalk fundraising event brought together approximately 140 community members in Marion County earlier this year, raising $70,000 to support victims of crime—more than double the amount collected in 2025.
Held March 7, the 1.5-mile walk began and ended at the Gerry Frank Amphitheater at Riverfront Park in Salem. Organizers officially presented the funds to Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson on April 24.
Proceeds from CrossWalk benefit the Marion County District Attorney’s Office Victim Assistance Program, which has been serving victims of violent crime since 1981. Over the years, the program has expanded to include a team of full-time advocates working alongside volunteers and interns to provide critical support services across the county.
Those services include 24-hour on-call assistance for survivors of sexual assault and the families of homicide victims, as well as guidance through every stage of the criminal justice process—from grand jury proceedings to trials, sentencing, and parole hearings. The program also connects victims of crimes such as domestic violence, child abuse, stalking, and elder abuse with community-based resources.
Organizers say CrossWalk funding helps fill gaps not covered by the county budget, allowing the program to meet urgent and practical needs. Past uses of the funds include providing hotel stays for displaced families, airfare for loved ones supporting hospitalized victims or attending court proceedings, pet food, storage units for domestic violence survivors, clothing for those who lost belongings, home security systems, and assistance with utility bills.
The event was founded by Salem resident Mary Lucas following a traumatic attack she survived on New Year’s Day in 2011. While walking near Riverfront Park, Lucas was assaulted by a man who dragged her down an embankment and held her at knifepoint. Three bystanders intervened and helped bring her to safety. The suspect was later arrested by Salem police and prosecuted by the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.
Lucas created CrossWalk as a way to transform her experience into a force for good, bringing the community together to raise awareness and support for crime victims.
“CrossWalk is a powerful example of turning tragedy into purpose,” Clarkson said. “The funds raised through this event directly support services that help victims navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives. While we can never undo what happened to them, the generosity of CrossWalk’s work means we can try to help victims move forward.”
The Victim Assistance Program continues to advocate for victims’ rights, provide direct services, and build partnerships with local agencies. Community members interested in volunteering or donating can learn more at the CrossWalk website.
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