Submitted by the Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc.
Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. (DVSN) is holding a fabulous “Celebration of Hope” Benefit on Saturday evening, May 6, at the incredible Collings Museum at 137 Barton Road, Stow, MA.
This annual “Celebration of Hope” fundraiser allows DVSN to assist survivors of domestic abuse in Bedford, 11 surrounding towns, and Hanscom Air Force Base.
Domestic abuse is prevalent in all towns and all economic brackets.
In 2016, the Bedford police referred 57 domestic abuse calls to DVSN, many of them involving people you probably know. This is a 30% increase over 2015.The mental and physical abuse occurring daily behind closed doors remains a secret, because the target is ashamed and afraid, and the abusive partner wants it that way.
DVSN follows up on all reported incidents of domestic abuse. Highly trained, confidential volunteer advocates reach out to survivors to help them stay safe, put them in touch with appropriate resources, and offer non-judgmental support so that they can tell their stories without shame. Often this is the first time the person has been able to share their story. Being heard, believed, and validated helps empower a survivor to begin to retake control. They no longer feel so alone.
You can support DVSN’s vital work by attending the “Celebration of Hope” Benefit on May 6 and inviting your friends to join you. Register for a V.I.P. ticket at $125 or a Classic ticket at $85. The Collings Museum, rarely open to the public, is not to be missed. Space is limited. To reserve your tickets now, visit www.dvsn.org and click on “Events”. Or, mail the following today: your name, address, phone number, email, and the number of tickets requested with a check payable to DVSN, P.O. Box 536, Concord, MA 01742. For more information, call 978-318-3421. Help DVSN provide support to individuals and families in Bedford who are living with abuse.
Thoughts to Ponder: Do you have a friend who doesn’t socialize with you as much as she used to, or who breaks dates at the last minute? She may be in an abusive relationship.
When you do get together for coffee, she frequently has no money. Her partner may control of all of her funds.
Has she lost her confidence? Does she seem worried? She is probably being told every day that she is stupid and incompetent.
Does she have frequent unexplained injuries and bruises? She may tell you that she is clumsy, but it is more likely that her partner causes the injuries.
You suspect something is wrong, but you don’t know what to do. How can you help? Learn more about the dynamics of domestic abuse. Volunteer to become a DVSN advocate. Consider supporting DVSN with a financial donation.
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