DOVE Center, a local nonprofit providing emergency shelter and advocacy to domestic violence survivors, will join with the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence in commemorating the 30th anniversary of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. During October, DOVE’s awareness efforts will be centered on a fundraiser called the Purple Purse Challenge, a candlelight vigil, and a documentary screening.
The fundraiser provides a national stage to help agencies like DOVE Center increase community awareness about domestic violence generally and financial abuse specifically.
“We are grateful to be a part of the challenge because we often see individuals and families right here in our own community who are trapped in abusive relationships because of financial abuse,” said Laney Larson, director of development for DOVE Center. “Participating in a nationwide challenge helps us educate and involve the community and gives us the chance to leverage what our community raises to receive matched donations from Allstate Foundation.”
Individuals who wish to support survivors through this event can do so by signing up to help raise funds or donating online at dovecenter.org/annual-fundraisers.
Other events slated for awareness month include a candlelight vigil hosted by the Washington County Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalition Oct. 10 at 6 p.m. A short program will conclude with the lighting of candles to honor all who have been affected by domestic violence. The event is free and will take place in the lower parking lot of DSU’s Testing Center, on the corner of 100 S and 1000 E.
On Oct. 24, the DSU Women’s Resource Center and Utah Education Network will present the documentary “Reel South: Private Violence” about the dangers American women can face every day in their own homes. Screening will begin at 5 p.m. in the Gardner Center, Conference Room B on campus, and a panel discussion will follow.
More information about how to support DOVE Center through Purple Purse is available at dovecenter.org by calling (435) 628-1204.
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