Every Step Counts Organization, Inc. founder Madeline Long-Gill knows what it is like to overcome difficult circumstances. A survivor of molestation, domestic violence, bankruptcy, and homelessness. Gill created the organization to create positive messages of life after abuse and celebrate the lives of survivors as they move from victim to victory!

At Every Step Counts we believe in making a difference in communities across the country through fun and innovative programs and services that benefit and make a lasting impact on the lives of survivors.

‘There are many reasons why I organized ‘Walk In Her Shoes,' said Gill, "I believe we should celebrate our lives because our history of abuse does not define us. As a survivor of both domestic violence and sexual assault, I really wanted to do something for those survivors that go unnoticed. The ‘Walk in Her Shoes' show makes it easy to use something every woman loves - shoes to help celebrate the lives of other survivors".

Why now?  ‘Some time ago, I shared my story of survival of domestic violence and sexual assault in The St. Louis American. I thought that was where the story ended, however, to my surprise this is where the story began. So many people called me to say they either were survivors or they knew someone, but what was most alarming, was most of the survivors did not feel or act like survivors. Most felt the shame and guilt associated with the act of violence. They could not believe I chose to share my story and some even said, “How could you share such information without feeling like people are judging you?” Well, at that moment I decided to launch a campaign to change the face of domestic violence and sexual assault from victim to survivor.

The ‘Walk In Her Shoes’ – shoe fashion show is our signature program designed to help other domestic violence and sexual assault organizations raise money’.