Candlelight Vigil of Hope, Prayer and Healing | Community Spirit

Every year, thousands of people in America are killed due to alcohol-related wrecks and hundreds of thousands are injured. On Thursday, December 06, 2012, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) will sponsor their Annual Candlelight Vigil of remembrance, hope and healing in Columbia. The event is scheduled to be held at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy located at 5400 Broad River Road. All activities will begin at 6:30pm.

MADD conducts vigils every year throughout the country, to support those affected by drunken driving crashes, and to express hope for a less violent future. MADD is a nonprofit organization in the United States that seeks to stop impaired driving, support those affected by drunk driving, prevent underage drinking, and overall push for stricter alcohol related laws and penalties.

The organization holds the event near the holidays because families often reflect more on those they have lost during this time. “The holiday season can be especially difficult for victims and survivors of drunk driving crashes, so MADD urges those individuals to come together and light a candle in honor of their loved one," said Tracy Thompson of MADD.

The Key note speaker for the event will be Director Leroy Smith of the South Carolina Department of Public Safety. “The vigil is a time to honor and remember all individuals of impaired driving along with the opportunity to bring about awareness to the issues involving the dangers and tragic consequences of drinking and driving,” said Director Smith.

All members of the community are encouraged to come out to and participate in the vigil.