The statistics surrounding domestic violence are quite sobering.
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports intimate partner violence accounts for 15 percent of all violent crime and they also rank Georgia ninth in the nation for domestic violence homicides.
Augusta University is shedding light on the impact of domestic violence by remembering the victims and survivors of abuse with a series of events in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Coordinated by the Augusta University Domestic Violence Awareness Month Committee with SafeHomes of Augusta Domestic Violence Center, Augusta Technical College and Paine College, the events raise awareness and unite those working to end abuse. This year’s events include:
Eat for a Cause- Donation night fundraiser at the Bee’s Knees and The Hive
5 p.m., Oct. 9. In their efforts to give back to the community, The Bee’s Knees and The Hive will donate 10 percent of all food sales to SafeHomes of Augusta for this month’s Eat for a Cause.
“Why do they stay?” Understanding the victims perspective
10 a.m., Oct. 16. JSAC Ballroom on the Summerville Campus. SafeHomes of Augusta’s Rachel Peck will share strategies on how to help a friend or loved one involved in an unhealthy relationship.
Take your pledge: Awareness + Action= Change
Noon, Oct. 17., in Paine College’s Peters Campus Center Veranda. Join the Paine College Counseling & Wellness Center for a sweet treat while taking a pledge to stand against domestic violence.
Real Men Do Cry
Noon, Oct. 22, in the JSAC CoffeeHouse on the Summerville Campus. Watch a documentary about the physical and mental effects of domestic abuse on male victims.
Make your Purple Promise
11 a.m., Oct. 23, in Augusta Technical College’s 1300 Building. Enjoy a free cupcake while learning about the power of bystander intervention.
SafeHomes Survivors’ Walk
6 p.m., Oct. 25, in the Teardrop on the Summerville Campus. This annual ceremony features testimonies from domestic violence survivors and all are encouraged to wear purple to show support.