NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Keeping women safe while exercising in public is the goal for the family of Alyssa Lokits.
She was killed while running on a local greenway in the fall. Lokits' family is keeping her memory alive by empowering other women who want to work out without fear.
Thursday night they collaborated with Vanderbilt's Project Safe Center to host a panel of local running groups, and city and community leaders. The conversation focused on outdoor safety while exercising.
Students and locals were there boosting their knowledge and skills to better protect themselves and others.
On Saturday, March 8, Lokits' family will host the first ever Free to Move 5K in her memory. Hundreds have signed up calling for more safety measures at local parks and greenways.
It'll be at 8 a.m. at Shelby Park.
This is a beautiful story of chosen family, proving a father figure doesn't have to have biology in common to make a difference in a child's life. The story of De'Andre and Alex will remind you that our relationships help determine the course of our lives. And that being supportive of someone - through a meal, a shared experience or even swim lessons can make all the difference.
- Rebecca Schleicher
