BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — For the seventh year, Kern County will come together on Oct. 10 to host Bakersfield's virtual Walk Like MADD and MADD Dash in the fight against impaired driving to proclaim, "No More Victims!"
Since 2009, our community has seen at least 4,000 DUI arrests made each year, according to the Kern County District Attorney's Office, nearly 12 DUI arrests per day. Kern County ranks worst in the state for DUI crashes resulting in injuries, and second most in the United States.
MADD Kern County has severely been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, losing a large percentage of funding intended to fight against impaired driving in our community. MADD California has lost over 80% of annual revenue, resulting in cuts that continue to disrupt grassroots programs and services, officials said.
MADD California is hosting a virtual Walk Like MADD ceremony this year on Oct. 10 using the #OneMADDCalifornia hashtag.
The statewide ceremony will feature CHP-Bakersfield officers, including Robert Rodriguez singing the national anthem.
Funds raised will fund local educational programs and prevention services, raise awareness of the DUI problem in our local communities, and provide support to local victims and survivors of drunken driving crashes.
"Now more than ever, it's important we come together to help victims and put an end to these tragic, 100% preventable crashes," said MADD Kern County victim services specialist Carla Pearson. "People are still making the choice to get behind the wheel while under the influence, and putting everyone on our roadways in danger. Like putting on a mask to protect our friends, family, and neighbors, we need to make a habit out of always driving sober."
5K walks and runs are held individually.
For the statewide virtual ceremony, featuring CHPBakersfield, go to @MADDCalifornia on Facebook or YouTube.
Packet pick-up is from 9 a.m. to noon on Oct. 3, in the Chain | Cohn | Stiles alleyway, 1731 Chester Avenue, in downtown Bakersfield.
Check here or Facebook for more information and to register.
