BellaOnline Forums Relationships Domestic Violence October Is...

...National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I want to encourage everyone, who has the time and the heart, to volunteer on some level within your community. There are so many people who need our help.

Some simply need to know that they do matter to another person. Others need to know that they are not invisible. Some need help with groceries, gas, housecleaning, childcare, gardening, transportation etc. The list is truly endless. Drop off gifts for children, for their birthdays. Organize a halloween party for the children and mothers in the shelters. So many possibilities.

Please consider calling a domestic violence agency or shelter, in your community, and donating one of the most precious gifts a person can give: your time.

I am where I am today, because of my Aunty Rita, who took the time to do most of these things above for me. It really does make a difference in the life of a victim.

We have some plans for next month in place and I would encourage everyone to volunteer.

What type of volunteer opportunities are going on in everyone's areas? If you are looking for one, check local TV channel local news websites or even call shetlers in your area to find out.

We have several activities in my community, including a candlelight vigil in honor of those that lost their lives this year to domestic violence. I also am participating in the events this year by holding a book signing on Oct. 17th.

At 2 area college we had a "Walk a Mile in Her Shoes" race where men wore high heels and literally walked a mile in them. This was to raise public awareness of DV. There are 3 candlelight vigils just this week. 1 I am speaking at about my childhood where I witnessed my father being abused by my biological mother (this vigil is to raise awareness and honor men) then the other one I am going to speak to a group of women who are in a facility who have recently left their abusers and I am praying my story will keep them from returning.

Jeanette,
Congratulations on your speaking engagements. My mother was also the abusive one of my parents. She routinely belittled my father, called him names, made accusations that weren't true. So, I do know that men can be abused. Although statistics show that most abuse victims are women, men can also be abused and they deserve help also!