Domestic Violence Awareness

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which we recognize by wearing purple. The color purple was chosen because in the United States military, the Purple Heart is presented to those who have been wounded while serving. For survivors of domestic violence, who may also be wounded both physically and emotionally, the color is meant to be a symbol of peace, courage, survival, honor and dedication to ending violence. At our agency, the Domestic Abuse Resource Center team is busy organizing events that will highlight October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month. These events include; a painting party at Blepta Studios and Pivo Brewery in Calmar on October 25th from 5:45-8:45 pm. We are also holding our second annual Trivia Night on October 27th from 4-6 pm at The Place in Provitin. Be sure to check our website for event specifics and for additional painting party locations!  We will also have coffee sleeves with our resource line number at area coffee shops, such as Impact Coffee in Decorah and are giving out domestic violence pins to law enforcement. For the third year, we are doing a Selfie promotion for students at Upper Iowa University and Luther College throughout the month. Students will post a picture with something purple to raise awareness and will tag our agency along with the college mascot against domestic violence.  

During October, the team will be displaying Silent Witness silhouettes throughout the seven county service area. The Silent Witnesses are life size cutouts that represent someone that was tragically killed in Iowa as a result of domestic violence. Last year our staff and volunteers answered 1,480 calls to help survivors in need. If you or someone you know needs help or if you are interested in volunteering for the Resource Center, please call us at (800) 383-2988. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Thank you,

Kathleen Davis
Domestic Abuse Resource Center
kdavis@helpingservices.org
563-380-7859