October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month where advocates throughout the United States hold special events to bring awareness into the community. Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the first Day of Unity observed in October, 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
Someplace Safe, an organization providing service to families and victims of domestic and sexual violence lists the following events to be held in Perham and the area.
- October 6- Perham Benefit: Lady M & M Concert/Dance at the Lakeside Golf Course with a 7:30 p.m. social and an 8:00 concert.
The cost is $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Call 218-346-7276 for ticket information.
- October 12- Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, men will be walking to increase awareness about violence against women. The walk begins at 12:00 p.m. in the Post Office parking lot and ends at the St. Stanislaus Rectory.
- October 12- Candlelight Vigil and March, 6:00 p.m. Post Office walk to St. Stanislaus.
During the past 12 months, Someplace Safe experienced a 15 percent increase in the number of young women (13 to 29 years old) coming to Someplace Safe for services. Advocates and volunteers with the organization answered 4,143 crisis calls; provided advocacy services for 1,507 unduplicated primary and secondary victims; and sheltered 170 people.
The Parenting Time Centers supervised 755 exchanges and 321 on-site visitations. The staff spoke 233 times to 16,504 people including businesses, schools, church groups, and workshops.
Someplace Safe has 35 part-time and full time staff and 201 volunteers located in 11 locations throughout a seven county area. To join as a volunteer or make a donation to support this work, contact Dianne at 218-739-3486 or dlong@charterinternet.com .
