Each October, domestic violence prevention and intervention organizations join together for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It’s a time to shine a light on an often hidden problem in America. (You can read more about Domestic Violence Awareness Month in this blog).
How can you get involved and help survivors of domestic violence? Consider donating to one of the five incredible organizations below, including our nonprofit partner, DAIS. These nonprofits always need help, whether you’re willing to volunteer, organize a clothing and supplies drive, or provide a financial donation.
You can also discover domestic violence intervention organizations in your area here.
Every donation counts. Together, we can support abuse survivors and stop domestic violence from occurring in the future.
Five Organizations You Can Support Today
These organizations offer support, hope, and healing to survivors. Consider donating your time, resources, or giving financially to one or all of these wonderful nonprofits.
1. Domestic Abuse Intervention Services
Domestic Abuse Intervention Services (DAIS) is the only shelter in Dane County specifically for those experiencing domestic abuse or intimate partner violence. When WodBottom decided to support domestic violence survivors – a cause very close to our hearts – we wanted to partner with a reputable organization close to home.
When we learned about DAIS (pronounced “days”), we instantly knew that this was an organization worth supporting. Their work impacts thousands of people every year through a variety of services, including:
- A 24/7 hotline and text line, where those experiencing abuse can get immediate service and support from a trained professional.
- Emergency shelter.
- Housing, employment, and financial assistance via case management services.
- Support groups for both women and children.
- Community education and intervention classes to raise awareness about domestic abuse and help to stop it before it happens.
Every purchase from WodBottom helps support DAIS. But we encourage you to donate directly to this phenomenal organization as well. DAIS is always in need of volunteers, supplies, and monetary donations.
Click here to learn more about DAIS and to donate.
2. Brigid’s House of Hope
Brigid’s House of Hope in New Hampshire is a unique shelter designed to protect and support victims of human trafficking. While not explicitly a domestic violence shelter, there is a strong link between human trafficking and domestic abuse. Those who live in abusive environments are more likely to end up in a trafficking situation for various reasons, and leaving can be life-threatening.
Brigid’s House of Hope opened its doors just this year. The organization provides safe, secure housing for female survivors, giving them a place to call home as they work through the trauma of being a trafficking victim. Brigid is a Gaelic word meaning “power, strength, vigor, and virtue,” the ideal name for this place where women reclaim their power and find their strength.
The organization provides survivors with their own space on their quiet, secure campus. Each client stays about 12-18 months while they receive support services, trauma-informed counseling, and other assistance as necessary.
We interviewed Program Director Jessica Humphrey about Brigid’s House of Hope. Read the interview here.
Help expand the work of this organization by donating through their website.
3. National Domestic Violence Hotline
The National Domestic Violence Hotline is America’s most comprehensive source for 24/7/365 support. The Hotline has connected with more than 6 million clients to date, providing emergency support, safety planning, and additional resources.
The organization’s phone line and online chat rooms are staffed by highly trained advocates. Those who answer the phone can help survivors leave abusive relationships safely and find resources to rebuild their lives.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline relies on donations from individuals like you to keep their work going. Click here to learn more about the organization and to donate.
4. Futures Without Violence
Future Without Violence is a national nonprofit dedicated to healing those who have experienced abuse and preventing abuse from happening in the future.
Through programs geared at all ages, Futures Without Violence provides education, intervention, and training to children, teens, and adults, helping them recognize the signs of abuse and prevent it from happening in their own relationships.
The organization also works to impact legislation and policy to further protect those most at risk of domestic abuse.
Click here to learn more about Futures Without Violence.
5. National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV)’s mission is to address the underlying causes of domestic violence in America.
Social norms are changing, but issues like sexism, patriarchal masculinity, racism, poverty, and classism all contribute to domestic abuse. While we know that abuse can happen to anyone, anywhere, NCADV’s goal is to reach populations with increased risk and create positive change.
The organization focuses on grassroots advocacy efforts to create policy change at the local and national levels.
It takes all of us to end domestic violence. Let’s work together to support these organizations!
