At the YWCA Central Alabama, we know that domestic violence does not stay in the home. The cycle of violence most often follows the victim and the abuser in other parts of life. Being the area’s only certified provider of domestic violence services, it is crucial that we recognize where domestic violence is prevalent, especially in places where we trust we can be safe.
For over 20 years, the YWCA has dedicated the third week of October to being a Week Without Violence. This year, Week Without Violence is October 14 – 20. A part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the mission of Week Without Violence is to mobilize people in communities across the United States to take action against all forms of violence, wherever it occurs.
For some of us, domestic violence is an issue that we learn about from other people’s stories, experiences and statistics. For many others, it is a traumatizing part of life that is hard to forget, that is hard to express to friends and family. Even more for children of young ages who might have a hard time finding the right words to express themselves, it can leave them anxious, upset or even silent.
As October moves us into the autumn weather, it also marks the beginning of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Being the largest domestic violence service provider in our service area, this month is very important to the YWCA, as we are committed to breaking the cycle of family violence. October also marks the beginning of the annual Allstate Foundation Purple Purse fundraiser.
Yesterday afternoon, folks from all of the YWCA’s housing facilities came together for the Annual Residents’ BBQ. Residents from the YWCA’s Downtown, Rosedale Senior Housing, Four Winds East Apartments and Mainstream Housing were invited to come down to the YWCA for some delicious, free BBQ as well as other Southern favorites like baked beans, potato salad and sweet tea. Every year, the residents’ BBQ is a great opportunity for tenants to socialize and learn more about the ever-growing community in the YWCA housing facilities.
Tuesday, September 17th, was a tremendous day for all of us involved with the YWCA Central Alabama. Kathryn Harbert, President of the Board of the YWCA Central Alabama announced that long-time YWCA Chief Executive Officer, Suzanne Durham, will be retiring at the end of 2013. The Board of Directors has appointed Yolanda Sullivan as Interim Chief Executive Officer to lead this new transition.
We’re at the beginning of another school year, and while students are getting back into the flow, the YWCA is gearing up as well with two programs to promote social justice and encourage healthy dating relationships.
The YWCA received a wonderful surprise from YWCA supporter Amanda Graves, National Executive Director of Thirty-One Gifts, and the more than 40 other consultants and directors from Thirty-One. As part of their Thirty-One Gives initiative, they collected items to donate to the YWCA from our KIDS (Kids in Distress) Korner wish list and women’s clothing and accessories for My Sister’s Closet.
