DASI marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month
NEWTON — In the wake of numerous New Jersey domestic violence related murders, suicides, and the involvement of public figures, domestic violence awareness is more important than ever.
Domestic violence is a pervasive, complex public health issue that requires an equally pervasive and multi-layered response, and its biggest ally is silence. In an effort to break that silence, Domestic Abuse & Sexual Assault Intervention Services presents a variety of activities during October, National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, to raise awareness of the issue and to highlight the help that is available for its victims.
On Oct. 8 at 6 p.m., DASI will hold its annual Candlelight Vigil at the SCCC Student Theater Building D, The vigil serves as a time of peaceful reflection and remembrance to honor those who have lost their lives to domestic violence, offer hope to those still facing abuse and to continue to support survivors. A courageous survivor of domestic violence will be presented with the 2015 Full Circle Award, honoring her journey from victim to survivor and thriver who is now giving back by helping others. There will be time for survivors in attendance to briefly share personal experiences if they wish, as well as guest speakers from the community.
Oct. 14 is Health Cares About Domestic Violence Day, and DASI will distribute important resources to health care professionals throughout the county.
At 11 a.m. on Oct. 20, DASI and Project Self Sufficiency will partner to host a Faith Leader Roundtable at PSS to discuss the faith community s response to domestic and sexual violence and the critical services available for at-risk families. Luncheon will be served.
On a lighter note, but designed to raise funds for a variety of DASI programs and services, Oct. 23 at 6:00pm brings the Beefsteak & Night of Comedy at the Franklin Fire House, 137 Buckwheat Road in Franklin. All proceeds will go toward helping end domestic and sexual violence right here in Sussex County, according to DASI Executive Director Jamie Bernard. Initial sponsors include Sussex Bank, Tri-State Insurance Agency, Nisivoccia LLP, Hanover Insurance Company, and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 57. A wide variety of sponsorship levels are available. Tickets for the dinner, comedy, and tricky tray are $50, and available at www.dasibeefsteak.eventbrite.com or at DASI. Call 973-579-3277 or e-mail to info@dasi.org. Tricky Tray items are also needed.
For more information about domestic and sexual violence services, to inquire about volunteer opportunities, or to schedule a speaker or training session, visit www.dasi.org, email info@dasi.org, or call 973-579-2386.