Editorial: Not Your Average Domestic Violence Agency
by Shanya Luther, Community Outreach Coordinator
In my work as Community Outreach Coordinator I come across people who have developed a relationship with our agency over the years we’ve been serving Washington County. It is very rewarding to meet people who know our agency by name, or have a relationship with our emergency shelter, and who partner with us through volunteering, donations, and support. It is interesting, however, to discover how many of our community partners don’t realize how extensively our services have grown over the years. It comes as quite a surprise to many people that our agency could provide services to them or someone they know.
Take, for example, our Protective Orders Advocacy Program. Many people have heard of our services around restraining orders, but did you know that we can help victims obtain stalking protective orders, too? In fact, we need your help with the expansion of the program. Join The Collins Foundation in supporting victims of stalking in Washington County!
Or maybe you know of an older neighbor who is being targeted by one of their younger family members. In that case we can help secure an elder / disabled protective order.
Who would you call if you knew of a child who had witnessed domestic violence and was acting out aggressively toward other children, but was no longer in the domestic violence situation? Our Children’s Intervention Program can help them process what they’ve been through and provide them with tools to deal with their feelings in a more positive manner.
Where would you turn if your faith community suspected a domestic violence situation in their midst? Our awareness and prevention program can provide a speaker to talk about the warning signs of domestic violence, the ways to offer support and help to the person being targeted, and basic safety planning tips.
These are just a few of the many services our agency provides; all bilingual in Spanish, and all free of charge. So, as you can imagine, it is so rewarding to help our partners get to know us all over again! Please call or email us to come make a presentation to your staff, business, or organization. We’d love to offer information, support, and resources to empower all individuals and families have safe and healthy relationships.
We wish you the very best in 2008! In the new year, we invite you to join the community of our supporters. Show domestic violence survivors in your community that you care! Click here to make an instant, secure and environmentally-friendly contribution. Thanks!
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