Letter to the Editor, Posted: 10/5/05
TO THE EDITOR:
This letter is to briefly introduce myself and to inform our communities that October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I am the executive director of The Refuge Network, a multi-community, non-profit organization that provides support services to people who experience domestic violence in Kanabec, Chisago, and Isanti counties. The observance of Domestic Violence Awareness month is in remembrance of those who lost their lives because of domestic violence; to celebrate the strength and perseverance of those who survived; and to unite those who work to end domestic violence.
Domestic violence is an epidemic. During 2004, The Refuge Network responded to 1,387 first calls for help. As of August 31, 2005, we responded to 895 first calls for help. Given these facts, there is no time like the present to take a stand and to send a message into our communities that domestic violence will not be tolerated.
I invite everyone to learn more about domestic violence and to assist us in stopping it. Throughout the month of October, there will be domestic violence exhibits at local government centers and hospitals and other educational opportunities offered in each of the three counties we serve. Volunteering is another way people can help us in our struggle to end domestic violence and it has a positive effect on both our communities and ourselves as individuals. Volunteers are needed in all areas of our work such as crisis line coverage, arrest pager coverage, safe housing, fund-raising, transportation, child care, court support, and office help.
Please join us in our efforts to end domestic violence and together we can make a difference. Call 1-800-338-SAFE. Thank you.
Carole Livingston
Executive Director
The Refuge Network
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