Domestic Violence Awareness Month officially begins October 1, 2015.
El Refugio, Inc. has already begun its efforts towards this year's focus: Taking A Stand Against Domestic Violence. Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) evolved from the "Day of Unity" held in October 1981 and conceived by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
The intent was to connect advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children. El Refugio, Inc. has been responding to and serving those affected by domestic violence since 1983. This year El Refugio, Inc. began DV Awareness Month by holding its Annual 20 Hour DV Awareness Training held on September 23, 24 and 25 at the Bayard Community Center, made possible by the City of Bayard and the Grant County Sheriff's Department.
This event was co-sponsored by the 6th Judicial DA Office and Silver Regional Sexual Assault Services. The event was attended by law enforcement, social workers and programs such as First Born, El Grito Head Start, Border Area Mental Health and victim advocates from the tri-county area.
El Grito Head Start staff committed to honor victims/survivors of domestic violence during of October. They will begin on October 1 by having a tree ceremony placing purple ribbons around the trees at El Grito locations. Staff and children will wear the purple pins during the month of October.
El Refugio will hold a Silent Vigil at Gough Park at 5:30 on October 1 to Take a Stand Against Domestic Violence. October 2, at 9am at the Women's Club will be the reading of the Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation that was signed by Mayor Michel S. Morones urging all citizens to observe and support DV Awareness Month in October which is dedicated to: Community's Values of Healthy Relationships and Wellness.
El Refugio will recognize the following supporters and donors: WalMart, Food Basket, Albertson's, Daylight Donuts, ACE Hardware, City of Bayard and Mis Amigos. El Refugio will also be honoring two former Board Members: Kay Stone, CPA and Kevin Flamm, GC Sheriff's Department for their years of service.
El Refugio will have a fundraising dinner on October 23rd at the Glad Tidings Church starting at 5:30 (Silent Auction) and Dinner at (6:30). Music will be provided by Brandon Perrault. Tickets are available at El Refugio, Inc. Anyone wishing to support the dinner and/or donate for the Silent Auction, is encouraged to support the cause.
For further information please contact:
Maria Morales-Loebl, Executive Director/ cell # 575-313-5344
Rachel Sierra, Shelter/Victim Advocacy Director
At El Refugio, Inc. 575 538-2125