Once a year for the past eight years, hundreds of men step up and strap on – a pair of heels that is – to walk two laps in women’s shoes around Olympic Plaza. It may sound painful, and it probably is, but it’s nothing compared to the violence thousands of women go through at the hands of their abusive spouses.

That’s why these men do it; to take a stand against family violence and to raise money for the YWCA Walk a Mile in Her shoes event, which ultimately goes towards ending violence against women and their children. Whether it’s a pair of hot pink stilettos or sexy black strapped heels, men will flaunt it.

Organizers say the event is an important way to raise money for a good cause while increasing awareness; last year the event raked in $287,000 and they hope to top that amount this year. There will be hundreds of men participating, ranging from the everyday Joe to local celebrities and everyone in between. At the beginning of September the event had already raised over $100,000.

While the event itself is fun – imagine big, burly athletes in high heels - it’s also humbling for those involved, and past participant Mark Smith says the event opened his eyes. It takes a lot of courage to wear heels.

"I mean, obviously walking in a woman’s pink high heels is kind of embarrassing, mostly because I could barely stand, but it’s more than just her shoes," Smith says. "It’s so sad that so many women have to go through abuse and often they have nowhere to turn. You kind of forget that stuff happens behind doors and this brings it to the forefront again."

This is what it’s all about, says organizers, who hope the event can help women in abusive situations but also help the men around them. The need is greater than ever.

Last year, over 6,000 individuals were helped through the YWCA’s integrated and specialized family violence programs while over 300 women and almost 400 children fled family violence and were sheltered through the YWCA. Over 1,500 calls were received through the YWCA 24-hour crisis line.

"I would just say to other guys that it’s actually a really good time but it’s also important to get out there and strut it," Smith adds. "I think us good guys can kind of forget there are bad guys out there and we need to stand up for the women in our lives."

This year’s event takes place on Thursday September 20 at the Olympic Plaza at noon. By registering for the event, participants can help take a stand against family and domestic violence while raising money for the YWCA. And ladies, bring your cameras because you might not see this again, at least not for another year. Those interested can visit the YWCA website.