In This Issue:

40-hour training now open to the public
Benefit Show on Saturday, March 27th
Volunteer Feature: Charlotte Corelle
Oregon legislature bans the insurance company practice of defining domestic violence as a pre-existing condition
Survivor Letter to Our Supporters
Thank You!

Join Our Mailing List

40-hour training now open to the public

One month away—reserve a space now!

Next Training:  April 12th through the 16th, 2010-six spots still available.  Next 40 Hour Training: September, 2010
Cost: $500*
Time: 9 am to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, April 12th-16th
Place: Multiple locations in Washington County

Registration Form

This five-day, forty hour training covers the State of Oregon mandated information needed for staff and volunteers to serve survivors of domestic violence in-person and unsupervised.

ALL 40+ hours of the training are mandatory according to State requirements.  For any community members taking the training any missed sessions will disqualify you from certification of completion of the 40-hour training.  Please see the Registration Form for more details.  Scholarships are available.

*Scholarships are available.  Of course, partner agency participants and interns will, as in past years, benefit from continued free access to Domestic Violence Resource Center 40-hour trainings.  We rely on strong collaboration between partner agencies in our community, and look forward to continuing this tradition that is so critical to the success of our clients.  The decision to charge for the training is in response to outside demand for the training, agency analysis of the unsustainable amount of time and resources spent coordinating and giving trainings, the market value provided by the trainings, other similar agencies best practices, as well as our commitment to responsible stewardship of resources entrusted to us by the community. We are happy to discuss this process with any interested partner agencies.

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Benefit Show on Saturday, March 27th

Featuring Dasha & the Bear, A. King, Julia Lucille, Oakland Birds, and The Terrible Dogfish.

Singer-songstresses extraordinaire! Jazzy-folk crooning and multi-instrumented orchestration of indie sing-songs!

100% of cover ($5-$10) benefits our program—a donation from all of these wonderful local musicians.  Come out and rock out with us!

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Volunteer Feature: Charlotte Corelle

This month, we’re paying tribute to Domestic Violence Resource Center volunteer Charlotte Corelle (pictured at right with her son). Since January Charlotte has been helping us create relationships in our local business community. She’s joined our first ever Autumn Affair event committee and every week has been making cold calls, putting applications together, and all of the leg work that comes with landing sponsorships. Charlotte started as a donor with our organization, but wanted to get more involved. 

How did you first hear about us?

I was planning on making a donation during Christmas to a local non-profit, and was researching non-profits on the Donors Resource website.  I was specifically looking to make a donation to an agency that deals with domestic violence, because I was very upset about the recent, horrible spate of violence.

What interested you in volunteering for us?

I had made a donation to your organization and was shocked to learn that Domestic Violence Resource Center is the only resource of its kind providing shelter in Washington County.  I couldn’t personally contribute additional funds to DVRC at that time; however, I wanted to learn how I might otherwise help expand such services in Washington County.

What keeps you coming back to volunteer?
It’s a sense of making a contribution to the cause and making a difference.  Also, I’ve enjoyed getting to know you all in the office and working with people who are motivated to make a difference.  I’ve also enjoyed learning about non-profits and how they function.

I know we’re not the only people you volunteer for.  What else do you do in your free time?

I’m on the Board of my home owner’s association.  I also volunteer with No One Dies Alone, where you sit vigil with people who are transitioning to the next stage; people who are dying.  I’m also on the Tigard Parks & Recreation Advisory Board.  Volunteering has always been important to me.  Years ago I volunteered for Portland Women’s Crisis Line in the 1980’s, so this cause has always been close to my heart. In addition to volunteering I’m also looking for a new position.  I spent many years in the healthcare data analysis field, and am looking for related positions, but also possibly work in the non-profit field.

Thank you so much for all of your hard work and dedication, Charlotte!  It’s people like you that make our free services possible.

***

Oregon legislature bans defining domestic violence as a pre-existing condition

“I think my reaction was amazement,” Rep. Suzanne VanOrman (D-Hood River) said. “[I was] truly amazed a victim would be discriminated against, because it’s such a horrific episode in a person’s life.”

The practice is not happening in Oregon currently, said VanOrman, but she wants to make sure it will never happen here.

She sponsored House Bill 3631, which prevents a company from denying or reducing coverage based on “physical or mental injuries sustained as a result of domestic violence or sexual violence or treatment received for such injuries” as a pre-existing condition in the State of Oregon.

This bill is a pro-active step by our local government so that domestic and sexual violence victims can’t be discriminated against.  We are proud to be Oregonians!

An informal survey by the House Judiciary Committee in 1994 found that half of the 16 largest insurers in the country considered domestic violence in deciding whether to approve health coverage. The Pennsylvania Insurance Department reported a year or so later that nearly one out of four insurance companies factored in domestic violence when deciding whether to issue or renew policies.

Currently, eight states and the District of Columbia don’t have laws that specifically bar insurance companies from using domestic violence as a pre-existing condition to deny health coverage, according to a study from the National Women’s Law Center.

***

Survivor Letter to Our Supporters

Monika’s House Shelter Resident Story

“To Whom It May Concern,

I arrived at Monika’s House Shelter on November 30, 2009.  I was referred to Monika’s House by a non-profit for immigrants.  I came to Monika’s House in search of guidance, to assist in rebuilding my life.  From the time I was a child living outside the country, I have endured severe physical and verbal abuse from my family.  As an adult I encountered the same abuse with my significant other.  I have suffered traumatic experiences, physically, emotionally and sexually.  Including severe bodily injury; verbal attacks, cultural and social isolation, and rape.

I feel very thankful that I had the opportunity to be at Monika’s House.  I never knew places like this existed, especially for men.  I was treated with dignity and respect at all times from staff and other people at shelter.  I was given the opportunity to think clearly and feel like a human being.  Most importantly, through the domestic violence groups I was able to learn about domestic violence and its affects.  This left me feeling free of self blame, and gave me a better understanding of what I was dealing with.  I have made improvements through counseling and my life is better due to the time and help DVRC and Monika’s House gave to me.  I now have full-time employment and was able to secure stable housing.

Thank you.”

***

Thank You!

Wonderful Community Response

Thank you all so much for reaching out to us and for forwarding our needs (2/10/2010 in-kind donation ask email) to your friends, family and community.  Thank you for looking at our in kind donation needs list and seeing what you have that we need.  We have received enough yarn to start our crocheting group, and have received mattresses to put on our empty beds!  We also have a few leads for new computers that we’re working on.  Over a dozen of you reached out to us and responded to our call.
Thank you all so much for your support in helping us with these last-second needs!

In This Issue:

Survivor Testimonial: a letter update from one of our past clients
THANK YOU!
This Saturday: Sheena Mendoza Memorial Tournament
40-hour training now open to the public
Now Accepting Applications

Join Our Mailing List

A letter update from one of our past clients

Survivor Testimonial

“Dear [counselor name],

Mother and sonI wanted to write you a note to say thank you for helping my children and I through a very hard year.  The DVRC program has really been there for us.  The very nature of DV has been the harshest of beasts to bind and recover from.  You can account for the years of foundation building in simple basics—safety, feelings, constant reality adjustments and perception correcting…. not to mention basics needed—legal help, food, even Christmas presents for the kids.

Finally, the time was right and my children could step forward and face and share their pain, the betrayal, their anger and every other emotion that comes from such horrifying abuses.  If for one moment I had ever thought the bruises were the worst of my pain it quickly burst into feelings that shocked my system so strong as to question even my core understanding of good and evil—deepening my experience of guilt and betrayal.

And so the hurricane has hit our shore and sad eyes at night pierce my heart and flash-backs transport me into scenes of the horror movie he lived and I hold him and tell him he’s home and safe and we cry, and I sit with him at night with all the lights on because he is afraid of the dark. When he finally sleeps I go to the far side of the house and sob into a pillow so as not to wake the children.

It all sounds hard and I won’t lie because, well, it is—but there is a difference that I have come to understand during this storm.  As the stillness of the eye of the hurricane passed over I realized that this pain is different.  It is healing pain—a pain with hope that grows in spite of the hurt.  I think it may be like the cancer victim, whom after being sick for so long finally gets the awful diagnosis—then with the life/death implications of such a diagnosis, begins the painful radiation treatments.  During the treatments they feel worse than they remember ever feeling from the cancer itself—but it is the treatment that gives them any and all hope for life.

I have concluded that this is what is happening and I will grasp onto that hope as I vomit the guilt and anger and disillusionment each day—and hold my children’s hands as they heal—and we will all go bald together but in the end our hair will grow back and we will be new and strong.

You and the DVRC are a major part of our survival. Domestic violence is a hard beast to bind and its families are hard to help.  Thank you for not giving up on us—please never stop reaching out to DV families.

With deepest heart-felt thanks, God Bless You!”

***

Thank you!

This Saturday!  Sheena Mendoza Memorial Tournament

Edit: Guest Article by Aaron Crawford: Losing One of Our Own

Guest article by friend of Sheena, and tournament organizer, below

Date: Saturday, February 6th
Time: 11 am, warm up at 10 am
Place: Hot Shots Billiards
4900 SW Western Ave.
Beaverton, OR 97007

Please call the event organizer, Aaron Crawford, at 503-619-6404 to sign up to play or for more information about the Memorial Tournament.  There are 64 slots available.

  * Silent Auction All Day
  * Hair stylists from Great Clips (her former employer) will be there cutting hair for a suggested $20 donation
  * Information about domestic violence provided on site

Download the event flyer here and place in your work breakroom, you business’s front window, attach in your organization’s newsletter, etc.

Why organize this tournament?  Crawford, friend of Sheena and organizer, said: “in my heart of hearts, I just want people to be aware.”

Losing One of Our Own
Guest Article, By Aaron Crawford

Sheena was a very bright and intelligent young woman, beautiful as she was talented. Looking at her you could tell at a glance there was more to this young woman then could be seen through the naked eye. I suspect even those who don’t believe in a higher power could feel the heavenly love she shared with all of whom she came into contact with.

Sheena Mendoza was always the first person to help when there was a crisis. She was the “strong one” everybody was able to look up too, it’s just who she was.  She was able to take on the troubles of the world, lending a helping hand whenever it was needed (usually no questions asked).  The reason Sheena was able to touch the lives of so many people in her young life was because of the strong family values taught to her by her loving family.

November 28th, 2009

Gage and I showed up to Hot Shots (Beaverton, OR) around 9:00 pm and saw that the pool hall was unusually busy that Saturday night, there were a whole lot of new and old faces there that night…” Read the article in its entirety on this page.

***

40-hour training now open to the public

Reserve a space now!

Next Training:  April 12th through the 16th, 2010-six spots still available.  Next 40 Hour Training: September, 2010
Cost: $500
Time: 9 am to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, April 12th-16th
Place: Multiple locations in Washington County

Registration Form

This five-day, forty hour training covers the State of Oregon mandated information needed for staff and volunteers to serve survivors of domestic violence in-person and unsupervised.

ALL 40+ hours of the training are mandatory according to State requirements.  For any community members taking the training any missed sessions will disqualify you from certification of completion of the 40-hour training.  Please see the Registration Form for more details.  Scholarships are available.

April 12-16, 2010, Training covers:

DV 101 - 3 hrs
Anti-oppression - 3 hrs
Compassion Fatigue and Self Care - 1 hr
General Orientation - 1 hr
Confidentiality - 1 hr
Safety Planning - 1 hr
Dynamics of and Working with Law Enforcement - .5 hr
Effects of Domestic Violence on: Elder and Disabled People - 1 hr
Dynamics of and Working with the Legal System - 1 hr
Dynamics of and Working with Protective Orders - 2 hrs
Dynamics of and Working with Abusers - 3 hrs
Effects of Domestic Violence on: Diverse Cultures   1.5 hrs
Intimate Violence: Stalking - 2.5 hrs
Crisis Response and Advocacy - 1.5 hrs
Effects of Domestic Violence on: Women and Men - 1.5 hrs
Foundations of Counseling - 3 hrs
Dynamics of and Working with Survivors - 2 hrs
Effects of Domestic Violence on: Children - 3 hrs
Intimate Violence: Dating Violence - 1.5 hrs
Domestic Violence and Substance Abuse
Effects of Domestic Violence on: Sexual and Gender Minorities
Intimate Violence: Sexual Assault

***

Now Accepting Applications

Please apply to be on-call as a Monika’s House Shelter advocate

On-call Shelter Advocate at Monika’s House

Hours to be determined at time of hire, at-will employment; Reports to the Shelter Coordinator; Pay rate hourly, DOE.

Overnight, Weekend, or on-call Advocate works at Monika’s House Shelter.  Position requires professional contact with diverse social, ethnic, religious, and cultural groups.  Some driving required.  Must be able to work with representatives from schools, colleges and universities, businesses, law enforcement agencies, social services, government offices, and community service groups. Required dress is at minimum business casual.

Requirements:

Prefer at least one-year experience working with victims of domestic violence.  Must have knowledge of domestic violence including causes, history, cycle of violence, and best practices in serving victims of domestic violence, or be willing to attend agency 40-hour training. Excellent written and oral communications skills.  Computer literate.  Clean driving record with valid driver’s license and proof of insurability. The ability to provide direct services unencumbered by any personal domestic violence relationship.  A calm, caring, well-organized person will excel in this position. Prefer bilingual English-Spanish.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Report to work for the scheduled shifts
Be on time for scheduled shifts, meetings, trainings, and appointments
Speak, read, and write English fluently
Communicate clearly in person and on the telephone
Conduct family and individual intakes
Ensure that clients have read and understand house and agency policies, procedures, and guidelines
Ensure that clients understand confidentiality requirements and protocols
Offer short-term case management for clients working to live independently, free of violence
Advocate for clients regarding housing, transitional housing, transportation, employment, medical and mental health care, legal issues, immigration, public schools, AFS, and SCF
Conduct one-on-one client assessments and goal-setting
Facilitate support groups and parenting groups
Maintain the shelter, grounds, and equipment in safe working order
Develop and maintain effective relationships with other agencies and organizations
Maintain confidentiality of clients’ and agency’s information
Maintain required records in compliance with laws and agency guidelines
Maintain high standards of personal and professional integrity
Represent the agency professionally in the community
Help to develop and maintain a positive work environment
Work respectfully and cordially with staff, volunteers, program directors, clients, and the community
Be mindful of the agency’s budget and conserve agency resources accordingly
Other duties as assigned by supervisor

For employment information please visit this page.

If interested, please send a resume and cover letter to Amy Gettings, Clinical Services Director, at amyg (at) dvrc-or (dot) org.

Guest Article
By Aaron Crawford

Sheena was a very bright and intelligent young woman, beautiful as she was talented. Looking at her you could tell at a glance there was more to this young woman then could be seen through the naked eye. I suspect even those who don’t believe in a higher power could feel the heavenly love she shared with all of whom she came into contact with.

Sheena Mendoza was always the first person to help when there was a crisis. She was the “strong one” everybody was able to look up too, it’s just who she was.  She was able to take on the troubles of the world, lending a helping hand whenever it was needed (usually no questions asked).  The reason Sheena was able to touch the lives of so many people in her young life was because of the strong family values taught to her by her loving family.

November 28th, 2009
Gage and I showed up to Hot Shots (Beaverton, OR) around 9:00 pm and saw that the pool hall was unusually busy that Saturday night, there were a whole lot of new and old faces there that night.  You had Gary and Laura behind the counter, Chris B and Randy on table 3, Pat on 7, Long(time)on table 6 just to name a few. I started to look around and I noticed one of the regulars playing 9 ball with a nicely dressed young woman, she was down on a shot so I wasn’t able to really tell who it was at first, then she looked up and smiled and I did a double take—it was Sheena looking just ABSOLUTLY STUNNING with her long white jacket, black blouse and white slacks, a new hair style and a million dollar smile.

Later that night around 9:30 or so Sheena moved her stuff over to our table (3) she had a smirk on her face and a twinkle in her eye so you knew something was up and it was going to be in interesting night to say the least. It didn’t take long for the jokes and sarcasm to start flying back and forth between all of us; this went on for what seemed liked hours. I’ll never forget the amount of energy and spirit she had that night—she was just electric.

As the night progressed I noticed Sheena kept checking her phone so I asked her, “What’s up, you doin’ OK?” She said “Yes, I just need to call my Aunt’s house and check on my Mom to see how she is doing.” (the Mendoza Family has been hit hard this year with the unexpected passing of Sheena’s father Dennis on October 31, 2009) Sheena excused herself and went outside to make her phone calls, she came back in 10-15 minutes later. She played a couple more games with us and said, “I need to take off before too much later, I need to work in the morning”. She grabbed her Green Viking and her 1x2 case, put on her long white jacket, gave us all a hug and said “I’ll see you Tuesday for the tourney and I’ll make sure to bring my Pom-Poms.” She smiled. She walked out the door, case in hand and that would be the last time we would ever see her again.

Nov 29,2009, Sunday morning
Sheena got up that morning and got ready for work just like she would’ve any other day. Before she left for work that morning she told her Mom that she loved her, she grabbed the keys to the truck and headed out the door. Sheena showed up to the salon where she was the Assistant Manager. Sheena went to the break room and put her jacket away, got her clippers and started doing what she was passionate about, and that was being a stylist, the other thing she had a ninch for was getting to know so many people in such a short time, she was well known and people spoke highly of her.

Later on that day her ex-boyfriend showed up to the salon unexpectedly, she greeted him with a smile as she did with everybody who had walked through the doors of the salon. I don’t know exactly what was said but Sheena and her ex went back into the break room to “talk” and out of nowhere MULTIPLE SHOTS RANG OUT from the break room and in the blink of an eye the beautiful young woman who we all loved and cherished was gone for ever her precious young life taken so suddenly and so violently to domestic violence.
You might ask yourself “what can I do.” Well, you can take the first step, you can call the Domestic Violence Resource Center crisis line toll free 1-866-469-8600 or local 503-469-8620 (http://www.dvrc-or.org) and talk to the staff about your concerns, they can give you information and help on how best to assist victims. When someone is experiencing domestic violence, they often first turn to friends or family members for help. By learning more about domestic violence, you can provide life-saving information to your loved ones experiencing abuse. Speaking out about what you observe could save someone’s life.  END THE SILENCE ON DOMESTIC VIOLENCE!!!!!
“Continuing to keep her spirit alive”
Sheena Mendoza
May 4,1989 November 29, 2009
Memorial Contributions may be made to:
The Sheena Mendoza Memorial Fund
At any US Bank Branch
Or you can call Aaron Crawford 503-619-6404
For all other donation information
Phone numbers and website provided by
Domestic Violence Resource Center
Local 503-469-8620
Toll Free 1-866-469-8600
http://www.dvrc-or.org
Thank you to all of you for your help and support

Laura,thanks for all of your help!

In This Issue:

Annual Ask Progress: We’re almost there!
Sheena Mendoza Memorial Tournament
First survivor and her child placed in new transitional house on Dec. 31st
Car Donated by Mike & Keri Bloom

Join Our Mailing List

Annual Ask Progress: We’re almost there!

31,028 thank you’s to the tremendous outpouring of support

Thank you to all of the wonderful donors who have generously replied to our ask with their personal gifts.  Thanks to these donors we are ALMOST to our goal of $32,100—which is what we need to make ends meet.  We will end our fund drive on 1/31.  So there’s still time to send us a check or donate online.

Here’s a note that one of our donors sent in last week that really made our day:

“Thank you for being there for my daughter and I.  You helped her through a very critical period.  It’s been 5 weeks since she took a firm stand and ended the relationship for the last time.  She is taking a day at a time and actively working on her recovery from this destructive relationship.  I pray daily for her continued safety.

You are providing a “life saver” for so many.

Happy Holidays
Sincerely Yours,

xxxxx”

This year, due to cuts in funding (read about our financials here, or email me for more information), we asked people to give more to us than they have in the past.  And they did.  People recognized that demand for our services was increasing, and knew it took more resources to answer this demand, so they increased their gift.

Help us reach our goal—and surpass it!  It’s a powerful statement to the survivors we serve that we live in a community that cares.

Please donate today.  And track our progress towards our goal on the front page of our website!  This appeal is critical to the health and vitality of our services as we help those in need.  People like you make possible our free and bilingual shelter services, advocacy, counseling and support groups through 13 experienced staff members and 12 Masters-level social work/counseling interns who provide services to over 10,000 people a year at three different locations across the county to people from all over.

If you have any questions or would like more information please don’t hesitate to contact me, Sarah Keefe, Comm. Outreach/Ed./Development Coordinator at sarahk (at) dvrc-or (dot) org or call 503-640-5352 x 308 or 503-926-3245.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for your support.

***

Sheena Mendoza Memorial Tournament

Edit: Guest Article by Aaron Crawford: Losing One of Our Own

Pool tournament planned in remembrance of Sheena Mendoza, who was murdered by her ex-boyfriend on November 29th at her workplace in Hillsboro

Date: Saturday, February 6th
Time: 11 am, warm up at 10 am
Place: Hot Shots Billiards
4900 SW Western Ave.
Beaverton, OR 97007
Entry Fee (to take part in tournament): $25

Please call the event organizer, Aaron Crawford, at 503-619-6404 to sign up to play or for more information about the Memorial Tournament.  There are 64 slots available.

  * Silent Auction All Day
  * Hair stylists from Great Clips (her former employer) will be there cutting hair for a suggested $20 donation
  * Information about domestic violence provided on site

Download the event flyer here and place in your work breakroom, you business’s front window, attach in your organization’s newsletter, etc.

Why organize this tournament?  Crawford, friend of Sheena and organizer, said: “in my heart of hearts, I just want people to be aware.”

Sheena was 20 years old when she was shot to death in the breakroom of her workplace, Great Clips, in Hillsboro by her ex-boyfriend Curt Wise.  He committed suicide shortly afterwards.  Two weeks prior to the murder she had moved back in with her mother.  Sheena had come into the Domestic Violence Resource Center’s office the week prior to her murder for her first appointment to get a restraining order.

The Mendoza family had to suffer the death of Sheena’s father in October of 2009.  Less than two months later Sheena was murdered.  During the investigation, Sheena Mendoza’s family issued a statement through Hillsboro police that they will “honor the memory of the Sheena by working toward and finding solutions, education, and prevention of domestic violence.”

See:
Hillsboro police identify shooter, victim in hair salon killing (Nov. 30th)
Family Mourns Victim In Great Clips Shooting (Dec. 2nd)
Obituary: Sheena Mendoza, 20, service Dec. 5
Domestic violence needs exposure to public’s light (Dec. 4th)

***

First survivor and her child placed in new transitional house on Dec. 31st

Thank you to all who donated to help make this new program possible in time for the new year!

Thanks to the support of the community the Domestic Violence Resource Center now has a transitional housing option in addition to a crisis shelter.  In the economic downturn securing affordable housing is often the largest barrier to a person living a self-sufficient and independent life.  The transitional home opened its doors for the first time this holiday season, and on Dec. 31st the first client and her child moved in to begin the year-long program.

We’d like to thank the following people who donated furniture to help us put together the new home, donated by Martin & Lori Rausch:
Arden Adams
Cindy Coe
Community Warehouse
Marlene Harmon
Pat & Bob Hunter
Sarah Keefe
Sarah Mati
The Rausch’s
Rebecca Sharp
Also, many thanks to those who offered furniture but due to size and space we were unable to accommodate.

***

Car Donated by Mike & Keri Bloom

Station wagon in fantastic condition donated for use by Monika’s House Shelter

Thanks to the continued commitment of Keri and Mike Bloom to helping survivors of domestic violence in their community, Monika’s House Shelter now has a station wagon!  This will be enormously helpful in picking up and helping to move shelter clients in and out of shelter, as well as picking up larger donations.

Mr. Bloom has donated cars to the Domestic Violence Resource Center in the past, as well.  He says it’s always been important to him that he do what he can to help support our shelter and the “important work that you do”.

Our contact information has not changed, it remains the same.  Visit our Contact page for details.

Since our expansion to Beaverton, OR, in September of 2009 our clients have been enjoying our new, more centrally located office location.  Please call our main line at 503-640-5352 Monday through Thursday, between 9 AM and 7 PM to schedule an appointment or to learn more about the services we offer.  The Beaverton office provides adult and child services.  We’re located in BG Plaza at:
3800 SW Cedar Hills Blvd., Suite 195, Beaverton, OR, 97005

We still maintain a presence in Hillsboro, OR (at the courthouse), for those in western Washington County who prefer to continue receiving services in the Hillsboro area.  Please call our main line, 503-640-5352 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about the services we offer.  The Hillsboro office provides most of our adult and protective order advocacy services, but does not provide Children’s Intervention Program services.  All of our adult services are offered at this location.  Call 503-640-5352 to talk about what might be right for you.  The Hillsboro office is housed within the Washington County Center for Victim Services, located on the first floor of the Washington County Courthouse in downtown Hillsboro, Oregon. To contact this office directly call 503-846-3020.  Office address:
150 N 1st Avenue, Center for Victim Services, Hillsboro, OR 97124

Why do we have an office in both Beaverton and Hillsboro?

For immediate assistance please don’t hesitate to call our 24-hour crisis line at 503-469-8620 or toll free at 1-866-469-8600.

In This Issue:

From the desk of La Donna Burgess, Executive Director: “Hope out of Crisis”
Thank you to our incredible volunteers
PROOF: Santa Claus Exists
“My Story” by Eva, Survivor

Join Our Mailing List

From the desk of La Donna Burgess, Executive Director: “Hope out of Crisis”

Dear friend,

We are facing a crisis in Washington County. Last month in our county alone, eleven lives were taken by domestic violence.  Because of your past support of our work, we knew that you’d be concerned, and that you’d want to help.
The Domestic Violence Resource Center was ready and able to help in at least one of these cases. She made an appointment with us for November 30th.  Unfortunately, she did not get to keep her appointment. Her boyfriend murdered her and then shot himself in her workplace two days before the appointment. 
As the news stories of murder-suicides dominated the headlines last month, calls to our crisis line tripled and people coming in for help at our office doubled.  Over the course of November, fifty-one people showed up for an initial counseling session.  Why the dramatic increase?  One survivor said she watched the news and said: “this could have been me”.
What is the Domestic Violence Resource Center doing to help the families and friends of the victims?

We reached out to the businesses that were involved in the recent tragedies and offered the support of our counseling staff.  On Friday of last week, two of our counselors went and provided one-on-one counseling for employees looking for support.  Also, our staff are available to go out and help people learn more about domestic violence and what they can do to help.  Only through education and compassion will we break this cycle of violence that has claimed too many lives.

Why have there been so many domestic violence murders in Washington County?

Short answer: There are many possible reasons, but a major factor is the economic downturn.

Long answer: Even though homes are becoming more dangerous, survivors were not coming to us in greater numbers.  There are more barriers to survivors wanting to make a new beginning. The greater Portland area has almost 15% unemployment.  In these uncertain economic times, could they risk supporting the children on their own?  Could they find another job, if they knew their abusive partner could find them at their old job?  Could they find affordable housing?  Of the 200 survivors that we sheltered this past year, they were in the greatest economic need we’ve ever witnessed.  Many came to us after having lived in their car—one woman lived in her car for a month before a safe and confidential space opened up.  She said she yearned to run the car for heat at night, but didn’t have money for the gas.

What can you do about the increase in domestic violence in our community?
You can do a lot. Not only can you volunteer at our office, attend our events, and schedule an educational presentation at your office, you can donate twice your annual amount today. We realize that this amount may be a stretch right now, but right now the need is greater than ever before.  Thanks to generous people like you, we believe that despite the hard economic times, allies like you will answer our call to support our work in the community.  Our efficient service-model allows us to run a lean organization with 86% of our budget spent on providing services directly to survivors. With your increased gift, our services will not only continue to help those in crisis, but help educate the entire community about how to empower one another to have safe and healthy relationships. We know that you want to be part of the legacy of building a safe and healthy community. Please, give generously today.
In this time of need, we’re especially proud of what we accomplished in 2009:
·      We assisted 2,892 crisis line callers, served 234 children with the only free clinical counseling available to children who witness domestic violence in the State of Oregon, assisted 803 people in getting restraining orders at the Washington County Courthouse, we presented to over 1200 high school students, and nearly 2,000 adults attended support groups and counseling.
·      We moved one of our two Hillsboro offices to Beaverton so that our services are more centrally located.
·      We presented to 152 elementary school students on how to stay safe and what healthy relationships look and feel like- a first for our outreach program.

With violence in the community increasing and available funds decreasing, 2009 was a tough year.  However, for some, it will go on record as a year of hope and new beginnings.  We used to average 5 calls a day to our crisis line—this last week we received 20-25 calls each day.  All of these new people are reaching out to us for support, who otherwise wouldn’t.  That’s the silver lining to these tragedies: people realize that domestic violence is a serious issue, and that they not only can, but will do something about it.  And with your support, we can help them empower themselves to have safe and healthy relationships.

We are counting on you for your support.  Please donate today, and join other like-minded champions in the community (click here for a list of contributers to our annual appeal).  Thank you for your support of our mission to empower survivors and educate the community to prevent domestic violence.  Together we will build a safer and healthier Washington County.

With hope,

La Donna Burgess
Executive Director
503-640-5352 x 303

***

Thank you to our incredible volunteers

Thanks to 26 volunteers for coming out and working for three days to send out our annual appeal

We were all very impressed and humbled by the commitment and passion of the great volunteers who came out and just didn’t go home ‘til the mailing was done!

It was a nice reminder after a dark month of the compassion there is in the community and desire to help support survivors of domestic violence.

Last year we had 12 volunteers, and it took three weeks to put together.  This year we had 26, and Wednesday and Thursday and Friday we were turning volunteers away due to a lack of work!  I hesitate to even include that sentence, but I just can’t underscore the outpouring of support we had last week—and want to honor those who showed up to give.  Because of these fantastic volunteers, what took us three weeks last year was done in two days and three hours.

Our annual appeal is one of our most important fundraising efforts—it brings in the majority of the individual community donations we receive each year.  It is critical to the health and vitality of our services as we help those in need.  You can be part of it, too!  If everyone on this mailing list donated $20, that would provide nearly half of what we need this year from donors like you to continue providing our free and bilingual shelter services, advocacy, counseling and support groups through 13 skilled staff members and 12 Masters-level social work/counseling interns who provide services to over 10,000 people a year at three different locations across the county.  (See those who’ve contributed thus far here.)

This year, due to cuts in funding (read about our financials here, or email me for more information), we’re asking people to give a little bit more than they have in the past.  Everyone is under greater financial strain this year, but our services are just as much in demand as they ever were.

Please donate today.  And track our progress towards our goal on the front page of our website through January!  If you have any questions or would like more information please don’t hesitate to contact me, Sarah Keefe, Comm. Outreach/Ed./Development Coordinator at sarahk (at) dvrc-or (dot) org or call 503-640-5352 x 308 or 503-926-3245.

***

Santa Claus comes to town, despite Development Coordinator’s cynicism

And just like Sasquatch, it’s hard to take a picture of him without the results being slightly blurred

Three weeks ago I got a call from a man who called himself “Santa”.  He was calling us to ask if Monika’s House Shelter needed donations.  He would be dropping off new plush stuffed animals for the children we serve.  I said “that’s nice” and told him where we were, and that I was looking forward to his visit.  Santa.  Yeah right—maybe metaphorically Santa, but not really Santa.
Oh yes, really!  Tuesday night Santa comes into the office “ho ho ho” ing with a generous check for $387 from Back to Basics Chiropractic (thanks to Santa’s advocacy, we were the recipient of the proceeds from their grand opening party for their new office in Hillsboro) and the new stuffed animals for the children at Monika’s House Shelter.  See the picture above as proof that Santa Claus was here!  His signature laughter resounded in our admin/dev. office section, so much so that as he was leaving our Clinical Services Director and an intern poked their heads out of their office and said—“Sarah, was that… Santa?”  “Yes, ladies, that was Santa!”
A believer,

Sarah

Sarah H. Keefe
Development Coordinator
503-926-3245 or 503-640-5352 x 308

***

“My Story” by Eva, Survivor

Warning: possibly triggering content.  Name changed to protect anonymity.  Scroll down for “My Story” en Español.

“Hello my name is Eva, and I am a victim of Domestic Violence. I lived with my partner for six years. Our relationship was a constant mental and physical abuse.  He would always hit me and make fun of me, I felt humiliated.

Everything was more important to him than me, he would never respect me or cared about my feelings, even his friends disrespected and threatened me. I was living in constant worry.  That worry became a reality when one night he lost his temper and started to attack me, he hit me, kicked me, pull and pushed me. I was begging him to stop but instead he continue to hit me, he was screaming and spitting at me, I tried to get away towards the door or the windows, I screamed for help but no one heard me. There was a moment that he calmed down only to attack me again, this time he started to choke me until I couldn’t breath.

At that moment I thought that was the end of my life and I started to pray and asked God to help me.  At that moment he let go of me and started walking to the kitchen where he grabbed a knife.  I took off running, locking myself in another room.  I didn’t come out until the next morning and then I left.

Monika’s House
When I got to Monika’s House, the first thing I saw was a beautiful place surrounded with enormous pine trees and fresh air. The person that opened the door smiled at me and said “Welcome” they showed me the installations, they assigned me a room where I rested.  They gave me food and clothing but most of all they gave me attention. They listened to me, they believed in me, they supported me when I needed it the most. The attention that I received was more than I could ever have imagined and overcame the insecurities that I felt during my stay at the shelter. I was given all the information that I needed to start my life. I was given psychological therapy in group and individually. If I had a crisis the staff was always there to help me no matter if it was day or night. They took me three times to the court to put a restraining order against my abuser.

For the first days that I was there someone would always accompany me to do my errands since I was still afraid that I would run into my abuser. I was given passes for my transportation. They also help me to register to go to school to complete my GED. As the days went by I was feeling much better and more in peace.

Shortly, I started to go out by myself.  Monika’s House helped me and oriented me to find a job and a place to live.  In Monika’s House I learned to not be co-dependent, instead I learned how to be independent and how to identify and recognize the signs of abuse.  In Monica’s House I recovered my self esteem, my dignity and my confidence. I started to smile and I started to live. Today I have my own life, a healthy life. Today I have a job, I go to school I have a new circle of friends to go out to new places.  I wake up happy every morning with a smile on my face ready to start my day.

I like to be happy.

Thank you to Monica’s House and thank you for listening to my story.”

—Eva

Please help us continue to help courageous people like Eva.  Donate right now!  We really need your support today.  Whatever you’re able to give would make a difference.

Mi Historia, por Eva

” Hola mi nombre es Eva, y yo tambien he sido una victima de Violencia Domestica. Por seis anos mantube una relacion con mi pareja la cual fue un constante abuso mental y sicologico hasta que llego a convertirse en burlas, humillaciones y golpes. Yo me sentia sola y humillada. Todo era mas importante para el que yo. El no me respetaba ni le importaban mis sentimentos, hasta sus amigos me humillaban y me amenasaban, yo vivia en un constante temor.  Ese temor se convertio en realidad cuando una noche el perdio el control y me ataco a golpes , patadas, jalones y trancasos. Yo le suplicaba que se detubier pero en vez de hacerlo me gritaba, se burlaba, me escupia y no dejaba de golpearme y humillarme. Yo trate de habrir la puerta y las ventanas para pedir ayuda pero nadie me escucho. Hubo un momento que se tranquilizo solo para volverme atacar y empezarme a horcar, yo sentia que me faltaba la respiracion y en esos momentos pense que esto era mi fin me encomende a Dios y empeze arezar, en ese momento el me solto y camino a la cosina y tomo un cuchillo. Yo sali corriendo y me encerre en la habitacion. Al otro dia por la manana me sali.
                               
La casa del Refugio de Monika

Cuando llegue por primera a Monika’s House lo primero que me di cuenta era de que era un lugar muy bonito rodeado de grandes pinos donde se podia percatar el aire fresco. La persona que me recibio me abrio la puerta, me sonrio y me dio la bienvenida. Me mostraron las instalaciones y me asignaron una habitacion donde pude descansar. Me dieron comida y ropa pero sobre todo me brindaron su atencion. Me escucharon, creyeron en mi, y me apoyaron cuando mas yo lo necesitaba. La atencion que recibi fue mas de la que yo hubiera imaginado . Me senti muy segura durante mi estancia en el refugio. Me dieron toda la informacion necesaria para recomenzar mi vida. Me brindaron terapia sicologica en grupo e individual. Cuando llegue a tener alguna crisis siempre hubo alguien para aydarme a cualquier hora del dia y de la noche. Me llevaron mas de tres veces a la corte de Washington para poner una restricsion en contra de mi abusador. Siempre hubo alguien que me acompanara a hacer mis dilijencias, puesto que en ese entonces yo tenia miedo de encontrarme con mi abusador.Me dieron pases parapoder transportarme.
Tambien me ayudaron a inscribirme en la Universidad de Mt. Hood para terminar un curso de transisiones y terminar mi GED.  Conforme pasaron los dias me iva sintiendo mejor y mas tranquila poco a poco empeze a salir solo y a reincorporarme a mi nueva vida.

Monika’s House me ayudo y me oriento a buscar trabajo y un lugar donde vivir. En Monica’s House aprendi a no ser co-dependiente sino a ser independiente. Aprendi a a identificar y a reconocer las senales de abuso.  Em monica ‘s recupere mi autoestima, mi dignidad y la confianza en mi misma. Empeze a sonreir y empeze a vivir. Hoy en dia tengo un trabajo, estudio y tengo un circulo nueve de amistades con las cuales salgo a conocer muchos lugares. Me despierto cada manana con una sonrisa lista para empezar un nuevo dia. Me gusta ser feliz.  Gracias por.”

- Eva

Thank you, thank you, thank you to the following businesses and individuals for stepping up during our annual ask as champions for survivors of domestic violence:

$3,001 - $5,000

Joseph E. Weston Public Foundation

$1,001 - $3,000

Vernier Software & Technology
Providence Health & Services
Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue
Mary Epler

$501 - $1,000

PDX Mini Cooper Club
Westside Concrete Accessories
Janet Vorvick
City of Tualatin Employees
Century Club for Women
Roger Johnston & Barbara Kahl
David and Linda Smith

$250 - $500

Marla K. Gardner
LaPorte & Associates, Inc.
Jackson-Haack Family Foundation
Beaverton High School Health Careers Program Students
St. Andrew Lutheran Church
Back to Basics Chiropractic PC
Dorothy Preble
A. Duane & Maryann Dillerud
Darolyn Anderson
Donald & Pamela Sue Evans
Richard & Renee Binns
Marlene Harmon
Jamieson Tools & Design
Gundars & Astrida Strautnieks
Emmanuel Lutheran Church
Charlotte Corelle
Marc Maxey, Keepers R Us fantasy baseball league
Joyce A. DeGarmo
Doris Winegar
The R.L.J. Ericksen Family Charitable Fund
Ethics Point
Pauline Reid

$100 - $249

Larry Kaster
Jerome Waterbury
Linda Fairham
Steven Eckert
Oddfellows Montezuma Lodge #50
Brandy Solomon
Westbrook Women’s Association
Karen Rollins
John Leeper
Dorothy M. Rotolo
Rebecca Reisch, Karsten Zuendel & Martha Reisch
Mary Lou Strong
Mary Jane Graham
Leedy Grange #339
Jill & Jerome Yoman
Mercedes Maltese
Kevin & Jan Upton
Donation in name of Jim Boone & Liz LaRue, Bill & Maria Boone
Hillsboro Presbyterian Church
John McNabb & Melissa Lucash
Mary & Michael Townsend
Donation in name of Elizabeth Bosbitt
Gary Berger
Hilde Frey
United First Methodist Church of Beaverton
Merix Corporation HR Dept.
Lesley Langan
Daniel Hill & Shawna Oliver
Drusilla M. Hamilton Trust
Metzger United Methodist Women
Lynne & David Chapman
Gregory Guthrie & Ayse Gonlubol
Steven & Carolyn Cagle
Sue and Wendell Pike
John Corman, Budget Tapes & Records
Bob & Patty Hermann
Peter & Carolyn Rux
Jennifer Burson
Patrick & Jeanne Wieber
Advanced Dermatology of Oregon, PC
Forest Grove United Church of Christ
Kathryn Todd
Laura Davis
Lorraine Clarno
Pat & Bob Hunter

$50 - $99

Mountain Home United Methodist Women
Mr. & Mrs. Stapelmann
Sally Boussios
Steven & Nancy Geigle
Joel Forbess
TOPS OR #487-Aloha
Hillsboro Encampment IOOF, Auxiliary No. 84
Tina Sahnow
Joanne Vandyke
Phyllis Churchill
Dave Potts
Donation in honor of Gina Skinner
Susan Hartner
Mary O’Donnell
Mr. & Mrs. March
Robert Homer
Lou Saponas
Nancy McLennan
Bonnie Gretz
Michael & Alita McCleskey
Donna Nelson
Carol Van Zuylen
Lynn & Larry Krupa
Douglas Reynolds

$1 - $49

Darla & Douglas Rowe
Amy Parrish
Nancy Cullers
Amanda Nelson
Marie Stiller
Byron & Dianne Steiger
Daisey Pargnet
Eileen Bonn Spencer
Elizabeth Matzke
Associated Property Management
Larry Smith
Johnny & Deborah Delfs
Edith Hernandez
Reed & Susen Ritchey
Barbara Fredericks
Mrs. Leticia Gholson
Shirley Short
Timothy Calderwood
Bonnie & Dennis Collins
Karen Kuehn
Irene & Rollie Ruehlman
Jill Brooks
Fatima Girard
Sally Duyck
Ms. Sharon Segal, Segal Family Trust
Charles
Reynolds
Andrea Korsen
Morning Star Circle
Glenda M. Patty
LOVE Circle - Hillsboro United Methodist Church
Grandma Leeth’s
Union Jills & Irene Silver
Gaston Top Soilers Garden Club
Patricia A. Hartigan
Katherine Haynes

Join these generous individuals in supporting our free and bilingual services by donating today!

In This Issue:

Local Tragedies Bring Issue of Domestic Violence to Forefront
Newly renovated house donated to the Domestic Violence Resource Center!
Thank you to Beaverton Women’s Club for their three-year sponsorship of two bathrooms, and the Beaverton & Washington County Rotary for their sponsorship of a bedroom at Monika’s House Shelter
Mauss Company, CPA: Champion Sponsor
“Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time, they just have the heart.”- We need volunteers!

Join Our Mailing List

Local Tragedies Bring Issue of Domestic Violence to Forefront

We’ve seen in our community this month that domestic violence is a matter of life or death.

Edit: November 29th, Fatal Shooting in Hillsboro: 40 year old ex-boyfriend murders 20 year old ex-girlfriend
November 28th, “A husband killed his wife and shot her adult son before shooting himself Friday evening in Forest Grove, police said.”

As of a few days ago, Ashley Kendall has been in “extremely” critical condition after being shot in the back by her husband. Teresa Marie Beiser was murdered by her husband, who then committed suicide, in Tualatin on Nov. 10th.  That same week in Bethany, domestic violence escalated to a murder-suicide and now Mukesh Suthar, Varsha Suthar and their son are dead.  The week before, Tameka Medina, her boyfriend, Ceantwaun L. Barr, and their son, Ashawn Medina-Barr, were all shot to death in Portland.

This is the most extreme conclusion of domestic violence.  Unfortunately, it is not an entirely uncommon one.  Four people are murdered each day by their intimate partner in the US.  That’s the statistic.  This November, in our community, we see the faces and families that make up that heart-rending number.

And it’s frightening.  But there is help. This last week our counselors saw twice as many new people come in for services than is usual for a week.  If you think you might need help, but you’re not sure, or don’t know what to do, or you do know you need help—please call our 24-Hour Crisis Line at 503.469.8620 or Toll Free 1.866.469.8600.  You’re not alone, and there is hope.

(Want to help us help others?  Please donate today. We’re facing the largest decrease in financial support we’ve seen in years.)

Violence isn’t some act of nature or God, it’s the action of a human being: a part of our community. The important thing we as a community can do is bring to light that domestic violence is a community issue, not a private issue.  It’s something we all need to talk about, not sweep under the rug.  We are all effected by the violence; in our schools, in our workplace, and in our circle of family and friends.  We all need to take responsibility for creating an environment where unhealthy relationships and violence are not tolerated.  It’s not about “why does he/she put up with that” or “why didn’t he/she leave” it’s what can we all do to support one another?  Through building greater awareness by talking about this issue as a community, learning about the cycle of violence and warning signs, and taking steps to support people to have safe and healthy relationships-we’ll break the intergenerational cycle of violence.  It will take time, effort and dedication, but in the end, lives will be saved.

Our counselors, advocates and staff would be happy to come help lead a conversation about any of these issues with your group, organization or business.  Be a part of the movement to organize the community so that everyone can be safe, loved and respected.

Call Sarah Mati at 503-926-3241 or email sarahm (at) dvrc-or (dot) org to talk about what would be a fit for your group today.  We offer several free and bilingual presentations, download our list of presentations here.

Everyone has the right to love, respect, and LIFE.  Together we can, we must, break the cycle of violence.

***

Newly renovated house donated to the Domestic Violence Resource Center!

Martin & Lori Rausch approached the Domestic Violence Resource Center this summer with a big idea.  They had completely gutted and renovated their house and wanted to make a difference in the community by making it a resource available to those in need.  But, they wanted to partner with an organization to help those in need of transitional housing receive the support they needed to help them get to the next step.

After much research and leg work, they decided to partner with the Domestic Violence Resource Center and donate their home to become a new transitional housing program.  In Martin’s words, “Through a set of circumstances that only God could have arranged, we ended up owning a house that we didn’t know exactly what to do with and a God-given desire to help those who need a second chance to get back on their feed and move forward in life.  Partnering with DVRC to make this house a transitional home perfectly matched what God had put on our hearts with a real need facing people who have been hurt by domestic abuse.”

This beautiful house needs community support to become a home for those in Monika’s House Shelter who need a longer-term solution to help them on their path towards independence.

We need donations of sturdy, quality furniture to help outfit the house.  We need a couch, chairs, table, twin size beds, dressers, bookshelves… not sure if it’s a fit?  Please call Sarah Mati, Community Outreach Coordinator, at 503-926-3241 or email sarahm (at) dvrc-or (dot) org to talk about what might work.

We also need your financial support.  We need to raise $7,840 to support this new service—If you’d like to be a part of establishing this new program, please donate today!  If you have any questions or would like more information please contact Sarah Keefe, Comm. Outreach/Ed./Development Coordinator at sarahk (at) dvrc-or (dot) org or call 503-640-5352 x 308 or 503-926-3245.

***

Thank you to Beaverton Women’s Club for their three-year sponsorship of two bathrooms, and the Beaverton & Washington County Rotary for their sponsorship of a bedroom at Monika’s House Shelter

First room sponsorships at Monika’s House Shelter completed

Thank you to the Beaverton and the Washington County Rotary for the sponsorship of a family room at Monika’s House Shelter.
The Beaverton Rotary replaced the old, damaged carpet with a new floor and area rug, put in new window coverings, supplied new furniture, furnishings, and made the room absolutely beautiful.  Work on the room was completed in early November thanks to the Rotary and its member’s hard work and dedication to stepping up as champions for survivors of domestic violence.
Thank you to the Beaverton Women’s Club, who are sponsoring two of Monika’s House Shelter bathrooms for three years.  Their sorely needed renovation was completed in early October—the floors were redone, walls repainted, new toilets and light fixtures installed, and other furnishings.  When the people in Shelter saw the finished bathrooms one of them commented “it’s like walking into a spa!”

These community organizations have spent much time, energy and passion to improve Monika’s House Shelter (built in 1999) and help keep it a great environment for survivors in need.  Thank you to the Beaverton Rotary and Beaverton Women’s Club.

Is your group, business or church interested in sponsoring a room?  Several bedrooms and community areas are still available.  Please call Sarah Keefe at 503-926-3245 or 503-640-5352 x 308, or email sarahk (at) dvrc-or (dot) org for more information.

***

Mauss Company, CPA: Champion Sponsor

The Mauss Company, CPA, steps up to support the Domestic Violence Resource Center

The Mauss Company was a Champion Sponsor of our annual event this year.  Thank you for their tremendous support!

The Mauss Company started in January of 2004, when founder Amy Mauss decided she wanted “to be a better mom and accountant”—so she decided to go into business.

Amy started the company with her husband so she could continue to be a “hand-holder” with her clients.  The Mauss Company is built on the philosophy that she is not just her client’s CPA, but also their friend.  “It’s important that as a CPA I take a personal approach.”  Her clients don’t need to worry about the bill when they call to talk with her, the bill is for when the project is done.  “Clients are family,” says Amy, “and family comes first.”

The Mauss Company specializes in services for small businesses, ranging from “Mom and Pop shops to 100 million dollar a year” operations.

You can contact Amy Mauss, CPA, at:
The Mauss Co., P.C.
14665 SW Klipsan Ct.
Tigard, OR 97223
(503) 939-4709 cell
(503) 590-9359 fax

*****

“Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time, they just have the heart.”- We need volunteers!

We really need people to donate a few hours of their time to get our annual mailing out or help us at an outreach event!

Are you available during the day or evening, December 2nd through the 4th, Wednesday-Friday?  Or, are you available anytime between 10 am and 6 pm on Saturday, Dec. 5th or Saturday, Dec. 12th?  Volunteer activity would take place at our new Clinical Services Office at 3800 SW Cedar Hills Blvd., Ste. 272, in Beaverton, OR.

We need a small army of volunteers to stuff envelopes, brave paper cuts, and get our annual mailing out the door anytime a volunteer is available Dec. 2nd through the 4th, between 10 am and 8 pm.  This mailing is vital to sustaining our free services!

We need a few volunteers to spend 3-4 hours wrapping gifts at Borders (on Walker & Cedar Hills Blvd. in Beaverton) as an outreach and fundraising activity for our agency Sat., Dec. 5th & 12th.  Can you help?

Give the gift of time this holiday season and help support our services to survivors in the community.  We need at least 20 people to help with this project!  Please contact Sarah Keefe at sarahk (at) dvrc-or (dot) org or call her at 503-640-5352 x 308, or 503-926-3245 to schedule a time to come in.  Last year we had 11 amazing volunteers who worked for three hours each, and got 2/3 of the mailing out the door.  This year we need twice as many!  Please help!

In This Issue:

October Awareness Month Events Last Chance: Halloween Costume Contest
Only one week left to take advantage of these special offers!  Local businesses join together to make a difference for survivors
Survivor Story: New Beginnings
Thank you to everyone who came out to support us at Autumn Affair
Schedule a presentation in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Join Our Mailing List

October Awareness Month Events Last Chance: Halloween Costume Contest

Come join the movement for safe and healthy relationships in Washington County during October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month by showing your support for survivors by attending an event!  Many of you got involved in our Autumn Affair (see below), Home Run for Healthy Relationships, Shop for a Cause and Grand Opening events!  We’re so excited that many of you were able to join us.  There’s one more to go: our Halloween Costume Contest!

Come out on Halloween for our Costume Contest at the Green Dragon, a favorite Portland brewpub (SE 9th & Belmont) with one of the most diverse selections of beers on tap in the city, Saturday, October 31st!  Contest starts at 10 PM and ends at 10:30 PM.  Winner gets a $100 cash prize, runners-up get fabulous prizes sponsored by the Green Dragon (merchandise, gift certificates, etc.).

No cover to come and cheer for the winners!  A donation is suggested to participate in the contest.  Must be 21 or over.  Don’t have a costume, or you’re too shy?  Come out, have fun, and help vote for the winner!  We really would love for you to stop by Halloween night to share in the festivities with us!  Contact Sarah at (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) with questions.

Local businesses join together to make a difference for survivors

Looking for a great local business for services that support their community?

Local Businesses Stand Up for Survivors

Marshall Family Chiropractic
6655 SW Hampton St., Ste. 120
Tigard, OR 97223
(503) 598-7652

Time Frame: Entire month of October
Special Offer: $100 New Patient Chiropractic Exam
Donation: $50 of which will be donated to DVRC
Special Offer:  $100 Program Fee for Weight Loss Clients
Donation: $50 of which will be donated to DVRC
Gladys Walgren of Graceful
Hands Massage
8905 SW Commercial
Tigard, OR 97223
(503) 319-8016

Time Frame: Entire month of October
Special Offer: $45 One Hour Massage
Donation: $5 of which will be donated to DVRC
Janie Selby
Grace Associates
Personal and Business Coaching
(503) 701-0587

Time frame:  All of October Special Offer: 50% off first
coaching session (normally $70)
Donation to DVRC: 50% of what is collected

Post Net
11575 SW Pacific Hwy.
Tigard, OR 97223
(503) 684-3209

Time Frame: Oct. 5- Oct. 12th
Special Offer: 20% off all shipping
Donation: 10% of shipping costs donated to DVRC

***

Survivor Story: New Beginnings

Baby Gabriel Kala born at Monika’s House Shelter 9/24/2009, photo taken 9/30/09 by Pétale Photographie

“It has taken me to lose every ounce of myself and anything that matters to me to realize I needed help.  I was in over my head, I was drowning fast and the waves had no intention of stopping.  I needed to make a change for my children and what was left of me. That is when someone threw me a life preserver, my only chance.  That life preserver was Monika’s House Shelter.  Without word to my abuser, I left Hawaii and escaped to Oregon with my children restored back into my arms.  The staff at Monika’s House has been like a lighthouse in the middle of a storm.  I am learning my children and I deserve a happy life free from domestic violence, and I have the power to make positive decisions no matter what happens around me.

On September 24th I gave birth to the child of my abuser.  The sun rays that poured into the birth room window that day appeared to dance and sing with promise the affirmations of joy, hope and safety my new son will experience. I named my son Gabriel (God is my strength) Kala (Hawaiian for sun).  Because of Monika’s House, Gabriel will never fall victim to the terrors my other children faced from my abuser.  Gabriel will not be stolen from me as promised, he will never hear the paralyzing promise of death from his father, Gabriel will never experience the darkness and hopelessness the other children and I felt.  Gabriel’s future is filled with bright dreams and opportunities for laughter, hope and victory.  I am forever thankful for the opportunity my children and I have been blessed; I am now on the shores of safety and know that had the staff and Monika’s House not been here, my trip to hell would never lead me back again.  Gabriel Kala’s name will forever ring the sweetness of new life.”

- Proud Mother, Survivor at Monika’s House Shelter

***

Thank you to everyone who came out to support us at Autumn Affair

Autumn Affair 2009 a Great Success:  Raises $10,000 to support Domestic Violence Resource Center

(Board Member & Autumn Affair Committee Co-Chair Katie Schaefer & friends having fun at Autumn Affair)

Thank you to our sponsors who made our annual event possible.

Champion Sponsor: The Mauss Company

Advocate Sponsors:  AlphaGraphics (Hillsboro),Henningsen Cold Storage, Beaverton Police Officer’s Association, Hillsboro Police Officer’s Association, and Washington County Police Officer’s Association

Supporter: Columbia Community Bank, Burkhardt’s European Flower Shoppe, Petale Photographie

We would also like to thank everyone who came to support us and enjoy delicious wine by Apolloni Vineyards, Ayres Vineyard, David Hill Winery, Helvetia Vineyards, Maysara Winery, and Montinore Estate wine provided by Marc Hinton of Enobytes wine publication.

We look forward to next year’s event on October 8th, 2010 thanks to all of our great community supporters, and all of you dear readers who were able to attend!

We also thank the following community businesses for providing silent auction donations:

Claudia & MirnaBella Fiore Spa
La Bella Vita Pizzeria
Broadway Rose Theatre Co.
Clean-a-Maniacs
Elk Cove Vineyards
lia sophia jewelry
Montinore Estate
New Seasons (Orenco)
Oregon Athletic Clubs
Portland Center Stage
Pumpkin Ridge Golf Course
Renaissance Wine (Orenco)
The Reserve Golf Club
Ritual Hair Design
Starbucks (48th & Cornell, Hillsboro, OR)
The Wine Cellar

(Counselor (pictured right) translating Survivor’s story (left) at event)

We also thank these individuals for their generous donations:

La Donna & Scott Burgess
Roger Dawes
Amy Mauss
Sue Pike
Katie Schaefer
Gina Skinner
Rob & Diane Stone
Doris Winegar
Chris Zoucha

And our fabulous volunteers:

Risa Davis
Fumi Owoso
Mary Ryan
Mary Sell

Truly, a community effort to support our services!  Thank you so much for your tremendous support!

Interested in playing a part in planning next year’s event?  Please join our event committee!  Interested in learning more?  Please contact Sarah Keefe at (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

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Schedule a presentation in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Who does domestic violence effect?

Answer: EVERYONE

Whether in your workplace, your school, your faith group, or at the playground—you are effected by domestic violence.  1 out of 4 women at some point in their life will be in a domestic violence relationship.  That’s an epidemic.

And you can help.  Research shows that survivors will be less likely to stay in abusive relationships or perpetuate the cycle when there is greater knowledge about resources in the community and greater access to support networks—that’s us!  Support networks can also include workplaces, schools, and community groups who are aware of the issues and what to do to help.  One way to build awareness and learn how to be the best supporter you can be is by scheduling a presentation from our non-profit.

Every advocate, counselor and coordinator at our non-profit goes out into the community and gives presentations—to youth on dating violence, to employees about the workplace effects of domestic violence, and others (click here for our full offering).  These presentations are given free of charge and in English and Spanish.

Why do we take the time and resources to give away these staff hours and presentations?  Because only through education will we break the cycle of violence.

But, we need you to help us reach out into the community!

Schedule one with your group today!  Or, call us at 503-640-5352 to discuss what might be a fit for you and your organization or business.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time for the community to come together and build awareness and a movement towards safe and healthy relationships for all individuals and families.  Domestic violence touches every person in our community and society as a whole; and violates a person’s dignity, safety, and basic human rights.  Stand up as a champion for survivors and join the movement for a safer and healthier community by joining us at one or more of our October awareness events!  We need you to help us make a difference and have fun at the same time!

From family friendly, to hip, to fabulous—there’s an event for everyone!

Autumn Affair, Friday, October 2nd, 6 - 10 PM

Home Run for Healthy Relationships, Saturday, Oct. 10th, 2 - 5 PM

Family Kicks Taekwondo Event, Saturday, Oct. 10th, TBA

Macy’s Shop for a Cause Event, Saturday, Oct. 17th, all day

Clinical Services Office Grand Opening, Thursday, Oct. 22, 4 - 6 PM

Halloween Costume Contest, Saturday, Oct. 31, 10 PM

We start off the month in style on October 2nd with our annual event Autumn Affair—one of Washington County’s best wine tasting events!  You can purchase tickets online here.  Your ticket includes a tasting of six Oregon wineries, cocktail reception dinner by the Stockpot Broiler (Beaverton, OR) and silent auction.  For more information please email sarahk (at) dvrc-or (dot) org.

Play ball! On Saturday, October 10th, come out with your family and friends to the ballpark at Tualatin Hills Parks & Rec. at 157th and Walker (Beaverton, OR) and watch a free co-ed softball game, enjoy a $5 barbecue, and raffle to support survivors!  Home Run for Healthy Relationships starts at 2 PM and will run until 5 PM.  Want to play?  Get involved?  Questions?  Email Serina at serinaj (at) dvrc-or (dot) org or call 503-640-5352.

Learn how to keep yourself safe and grow to your fullest potential at Family Kicks (Aloha, OR), with their fun Tae-kwon-do event on October 10th.  Everyone is welcome!  Contact traciew (at) dvrc-or (dot) org to get involved or if you have questions.

After getting a fun work-out at Family Kicks, head out to Macy’s for their Shop for a Cause event (at any Macy’s location)!  Tickets are $5, and all proceeds benefit us—the catch is you have to purchase tickets in advance.  Please contact Sarah at sarahk (at) dvrc-or (dot) org or 503-640-5352 x 308 for your pass to very special savings October 17th, only.

Don’t forget to check out our brand new office at the Grand Opening from 4 to 6 PM on October 22nd! Help us cut the ribbon at 4 PM of our new Clinical Services Office (read all about it in Beaverton Times) at 3800 SW Cedar Hills Blvd., Suite 195 in Beaverton, OR.  Questions?  Please call 503-640-5352.  Learn about our programs and services and come connect with our partners as we work together to build a safe and healthy community for all!

Come out on Halloween for our Costume Contest at the Green Dragon, the hippest bar in Portland (SE 9th & Belmont) with one of the city’s most extensive selection of beers on tap, Saturday, October 31st!  Contest starts at 10 PM.  Winner gets a $100 cash prize, runners-up get fabulous prizes sponsored by the Green Dragon.  NO COVER.  A donation is suggested to take part in the costume contest.  Must be 21 or over.  Don’t have a costume, or you’re too shy?  Come out, have fun, and help vote for the winner!  Contact Sarah at sarahk (at) dvrc-or (dot) org with questions!