MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. – The murder of Macomb County’s Tara Grant in 2007 stunned plenty of people all over metro Detroit.
Her husband, Stephen Grant, first reported her missing, but police found her dismembered remains in their Washington Township Garage and at Stony Creek Metropark. Her husband was later convicted of killing her.
Out of that tragedy, Tara’s family wanted to find a way to honor her and help others. Now, Tara’s 5K Run & Walk returns Sept. 13. Her family works with Turning Point Macomb, an agency that empowers victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking.
The 5K not only raises awareness but also helps to raise critical funding to help survivors who are fleeing violence.
Grant’s family, including her sister, Alicia Standerfer and her husband Eric Standerfer, who raised Grant’s children Lindsey and Ian Standerfer, as well as two children of their own, return every year for the event.
“Tara’s 5K is such an amazing way to celebrate the life my mother lived as well as raise awareness for domestic violence and how it impacts not just survivors, but their families as well,” Lindsey Standerfer remarked. “I am so grateful for the work Turning Point has done to help survivors and families the last 45 years in Macomb County, and I look forward to the work they will do for many years to come.”
In addition to the race, this year’s event will include a celebration of Turning Point’s 45th anniversary and will honor those who helped build that organization.
Participants can register for Tara’s 5K Run & Walk through Sept. 12 for $35. On-site registration will be available for $40 on event day. Funds raised go directly to the Tara Liberation Fund at Turning Point, which provides immediate assistance to domestic violence survivors.
Event day registration begins at 9 a.m., followed by a brief program at 10 a.m. The 5K starts at 10:30 a.m., with awards for various age groups at 11:30 a.m. Complimentary hot dogs, chips, and beverages will be served after the race.
The event would not be possible without sponsors, including Jomar Valve, Nino Salvaggio International Marketplace, and Acts of Kindness Foundation. Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available and can be found here.