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In February 2011
Laurel House staff, interns and volunteers...
Answered 112 hotline calls
Provided over 949 hours of counseling services to those affected by domestic violence
Sheltered 26 women and 10 children in our domestic violence shelter
Educated 1207 youth about dating violence and healthy relationships |
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Thank you to all those who attended, organized and contributed to our Marian's Attic Basket Bingo. Because of EACH of your we raised over $5,000! Check out the pictures below:
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SAVE THE DATE
GALA 2011 "Magic"
Saturday, May 21st
Green Valley County Club, Lafayette Hill
Strike-Out Domestic Violence Bowl-a-thon
Friday, June 3rd
Facenda Whitaker Lanes,
Norristown
7pm to 10pm
For more information
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Greetings!
It has been an exciting time, since I accepted the role of Deputy Director
here at Laurel House in Janurary. Everyday, when I come through the doors of our wonderful organization, I am often reminded of a quote by Helen Keller.
"I am only one; but still, I am one. I can not do everything, but still, I can do something; I will not refuse something that I can do." - Helen Keller
Everyone has something to contribute in the domestic violence movement. Yes, there has been advancement over the years in providing services to those who are leaving abusive relationships. This advancement, particularly in the area of service delivery to victims; can be celebrate. However, it is sobering, to know that domestic violence continues to destroy the lives of individuals and families regardless of ethnicity, age, religion, sexual orientation, or gender.
This newsletter will provide direction on how to help a friend or family member who is in an abusive relationship. This publication also includes information, on our upcoming gala and our volunteer honorees.
Sincerely,
Marcus Christmas, MSS
Deputy Director |
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 HELP!How do I help someone who is in an abusive relationship?
It is never easy when someone you love and care about is dealing with violence or abuse in a relationship. But the reality is that at some point in our lives, we will more than likely know someone who is or has been in an abusive relationship. So...the question is how do we help them? Although we might feel helpless at times, there are ways to support a friend/family member/co-worker etc..who is in an abusive relationship.
Below are some ideas that may be helpful when you find yourself in this situation:
- Educate yourself about domestic violence
- Tell them that you are concerned for their safety;
- Acknowledge that the abuse is not their fault. Remind them that the abuser is responsible for the abuse;
- Tell them that they are not alone;
- Be supportive and patient. It may be difficult for them to talk about the abuse. Let them know that you are available to listen or help any time;
- Avoid judging them. The person may break up with and go back with the abuser many times before finally leaving the relationship. Do not critcize them for doing this, even if you disagree with the choices they make;
- Encourage them to talk to others who can provide help or guidance. Offer to help them talk with family, friends, a youth group leader, a teacher, a pastor or help them to find a counselor or support group. If they decide to go to the police, to court or to see a lawyer, offer to come along, but make sure you don't do the talking when you get there;
- Help them develop a practical and specific safety plan that focuses on preventing future harm or abuse. If they are going to see the abuser, encourage them to do this in a public place, especially to break up. If they are afraid, help them to think about who to call and where to go and to put those contact numbers in a very safe space;
- Help them to think about a place to have their keys, cell phone, a little money and other basics ready if needed in an emergency;
- Do not confront the abuser; it could be dangerous for you and the victim;
- Remember you cannot "rescue" them. It is difficult to see someone you care about get hurt. They must be the one to decide what to do. Your job is to be supportive;
- Explore domestic violence/dating violence websites for 24-hour emergency hotlines for help and additional resources.
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Kids Cooking Class
 Sunday mornings you will usually find me at the shelter immersed in paint or foam craft shapes teaching arts and crafts to the kids (moms are welcome to join in). Recently though there were three sisters at the shelter who loved arts and crafts but also had a strong desire to learn how to cook. I love to cook (especially bake) so I decided to "switch-up" our arts and craft time to a kids cooking class. We would make chocolate chip cookies - from scratch of course!
Since I never know from week to week who will be at the shelter, I called ahead to confirm that the 3 girls were still there and learned that, not only were they still there, I had 5 more kids my cooking class ranging in ages 4 to 12 years old! What was I getting myself into?
I decided to divide and conquer and split the kids into 2 groups, each making their own batch of cookies! This way everyone got to participate and do a little bit of everything! The older kids helped teach the youngers one how to crack open eggs (not one egg shell in the batter!). The younger kids loved dumping the chocolate chips into the batter and especially loved the aroma of the cookies dough when it was all put together.
The kids had a great time making the cookies and were really excited when the first batch came out of the oven! They were absolutely delicious and everyone had warm chocolate chip cooks for dessert at lunchtime!
I loved teaching the kids how to cook and just like arts and crafts, and, without the kids realizing it, they were learning valuable lessons while having fun! We worked on boosting self confidence, following instructions, life skills, team work, sharing, math skills and creativity...to name a few!
I am looking forward to "switching-up" my arts and crafts class again!
- Joyce Blunt, volunteer |
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The above story is just one of many that highlights the AWESOME work that our volunteers do each and every day! This year we are honoring some of those volunteers at our annual Gala. Click on the banner below to find out more information:
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Next Issue:
- Protection from Abuse Orders: All you need to know
- And much more....
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