THE SHOALS-In the United States an average of 24 people per minute are victims of physical violence, rape or stalking by an intimate partner. According to a National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, more than 12 million Americans are affected by domestic violence over the course of one year. This disturbing statistic includes many residents of Northwest Alabama.
Safeplace, Inc., is a comprehensive domestic violence program serving Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Marion, and Winston Counties. The nonprofit organization was established in 1981 at the dawn of the social reformation concerning family violence. At that time, Safeplace offered the community a twelve-bed emergency housing facility. Last year the organization, through a combination of programming and housing, helped more than 4,000 women, men, and children overcome the influences of violence in their lives.
Rachel Hackworth, Executive Director of Safeplace, Inc
“Safeplace services have grown exponentially in the last three years. With the addition of programs to help children who have experienced domestic violence, three new outreach offices, and increased housing and support services, Safeplace empowers survivors to thrive,” said Rachel Hackworth, Executive Director of Safeplace, Inc. “The generosity of individuals and organizations in our community make this possible.”
As is the case with many nonprofit organizations, the success of Safeplace depends on grants, fundraising events, and donations. On June 7th, Safeplace will host the Liberty Luncheon, its largest annual fundraising endeavor. The event will take place at the Marriott Conference Center from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from a participant in Safeplace’s batterer intervention program and from a mother whose child’s future looks much brighter because of Safeplace programs.
“We encourage everyone with an interest in breaking the cycle of violence in families to attend this event,” said Hackworth. “We hope guests will be inspired to make contributions – although event entry is free with a reservation.”
Reservations can be made at Eventbrite.com, by emailing safeplaceinc@gmail.com, or by calling 256-767-3076 extension 3.
Media Release/Debra Dombrowski
