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Tag: dv nonprofit

Thrive Summit

June 8 @ 8:30 am – 1:00 pm CDT


Celebrate Rebuilding Your Life

Thrive Summit: Celebrate Rebuilding Your Life

Are you a survivor eager to build a successful future and achieve self-reliance? Join us at the Thrive Summit, a transformative event designed to empower and inspire you on your journey to independence and success.

Our sessions include:

  • Voices of Freedom Panel: Hear from our Survivor Experts as they share their powerful stories of overcoming challenges and achieving triumphs.
  • Securing the Bag: Economic Empowerment: Gain valuable insights and strategies for financial independence.
  • Leading the Movement: Participate in a SURVIVOR focus group discussing vital issues within the Criminal Justice System.

This exclusive event is limited to 20 participants. Registration is FREE, but you MUST RSVP to secure your spot TODAY!

Breakfast (Light bites) and Box Lunch PROVIDED!

Free

Thecia Jenkins

United Way of Greater Houston

50 Waugh Street
Houston, TX United States + Google Map

Attendee

11 Going
9 remaining
RSVP Here
Categories
Community Share Legacies Mental Health Awareness Month

Journey 2 Advocacy…

May is Share Your Story Month and Mental Health Awareness Month.   Combining those two topics we sent out a survey to our staff  with the following questions: 

1) What initially drew you to the field of non profit?

2) What motivated you to specialize in domestic violence issues specifically?

3) How do you maintain self-care and resilience while working in such a demanding and emotionally taxing field?

4) Is there anything else you’d like to share about your journey, your motivations, or your experiences in this field?


Here are their stories.
1)Domestic Violence brought me to the non-profit world.”

2) “Survival and my children.”

3) “Praying and not giving up.”

4)”I was able to get out the abusive relationship and lived through it all.”

1) “I’m passionate about making a positive impact in the world and believe in the power of collective action to address social issues and create positive change. I’m also inspired by the opportunity to work towards a cause that aligns with my values and allows me to contribute to the greater good of society.”

2) “I was designed to have a understanding of various social and provide support and information on how to address them. Domestic violence is a serious problem that affects many people, and I want be able to provide accurate and helpful information to those who may be experiencing or know who is experiencing domestic violence. It’s important to raise awareness and support survivors in any way we can.”

3) “Self-care is extremely important when working in a demanding and emotionally taxing field like supporting survivors of domestic violence. It’s important to take breaks when needed, set boundaries, and practice self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and spending time loved ones. It’s also helpful to seek support from colleagues, supervisors, or a therapist to process difficult emotions and experiences. I try to remember to prioritize my own well-being so i can continue to others effectively.”

4)”I am programmed to provide accurate and helpful information on various topics, including domestic violence. My main motivation is to assist and support individuals who may be experiencing such difficult situations. It is important to raise awareness about domestic violence and provide for those in need.”

1) “I love giving back to others. I think that it is important to all the communities.”

2) “My past experiences-first my mom’s ex and then my ex. This industry is the most overlooked and most misunderstood.”

3) “I practice self-care by spending time with family and friends, watching documentaries on TV, working out, and playing video/board games.”
1) “The ability to learn community, work on the front lines to assist individuals and families in time of need. Hear the stories that probably no one has heard before or didn’t want to hear.”

2) “Domestic violence is a personal story of mine, being a child that survived the violence at home created many barriers during my childhood, teen years and as a young adult. The trauma has followed me through the years. I have not only heard stories of DV survivors I am a survivor of such crime: no child should ever have to live through such pain.”

3) “GOD is the only one who has taught me how to heal and forgive. I believe individuals have the opportunity to learn how to be better to themselves and to others. The journey might be a long road, but it will lead you to where you need to be to feel complete.”

4) “I maintain self- care by seeing things grow (I am not a gardener by no means) but enjoy seeing plants grow. I share my life with my loved ones. Nature nurtures my soul and spirit all living things bring me joy. I love! love, love! to hear from past clients (now friends) that have kept my contact number. Some still keep in contact with me, I now hear a different story, stories of happiness, stories of success, stories of growth, stories of triumph. We now share tears of joy. That is my MOTIVATION seeing, hearing people becoming, a change, sharing a different story to tell others.”

1) “My journey to advocacy began with the mission of DVCC not necessarily that it was a non-profit.”

2) “My passion for domestic violence advocacy work started when I realized there are a lot of survivors but not a whole lot of quality services. Everyone deserves to live a violence free life and I want to make sure that kids that grow up in that environment don’t have to continue the cycle of abuse.”

3) “I maintain my mental health through spending time with friends who are not in the movement to take a break but the most important thing is cuddling with my dog!”

4) “My final thoughts on motivation and experiences are setting boundaries, knowing your limits and knowing when to take a break are the only things that get you through working in this high stress environment. “

1) “My journey to advocacy began with my passion for bringing about positive change and making a real difference by addressing social issues attracted me to the nonprofit field. My work is a legacy, as I know my efforts can have a lasting impact beyond my lifetime. It gives me immense satisfaction to know that I am contributing to something greater than myself and leaving a positive legacy for future generations.”

2) “My passion for domestic violence advocacy work started when entering a women’s domestic violence shelter and realizing I was the only male present was a turning point for me. Understanding the statistics surrounding domestic violence, I realized the crucial role men play in both perpetuating and addressing this issue. As a husband, father, and brother, I am inspired to challenge myself and others to become involved and specialize in domestic violence issues. By breaking stereotypes, dismantling patriarchy, promoting healthy relationships, and building empathy and compassion, men can make a significant contribution to eradicating domestic violence.”

3) “I maintain my mental health is practicing self-care and resilience is by knowing my limits and understanding that I can only control what I can control.”

4) “Making someone feel visible will increase their perceived value of you. It’s a powerful lesson I learned on my own journey, and I’ve found that it can make a huge difference in any personal or professional relationship. “

Categories
Black History Month Op-eds

Anti-Racism Policy

BIPOC Subcommittee Anti-Racism Policy

Racial Equity

The BIPOC subcommittee of the Domestic Violence Steering Committee of the greater Harris County area collaboration, supports the development of policy to combat racism and its effects. The subcommittee recognizes that the issue is a threat to the viability and health of staff, volunteers, and those we serve. Racism often manifests itself systemically, culturally, and interpersonally. The subcommittee is committed to engaging in actions that break down the walls of racial inequality. We strive for an environment where those we serve do not experience the barriers of racism. We further strive for all staff of partners within this collaborative to feel included, heard, and valued without the barriers of racism. Actions the subcommittee is proposing include but are not limited to:

1. Racial Equity Workgroup – The Racial Equity Workgroup is comprised of select subcommittee members from agencies across the Greater Houston Area. The purpose of the workgroup is to address the systemic, cultural, and interpersonal issues of racism, to make recommendations to the Steering Committee regarding partner agencies policy, and to establish best practice recommendations for the collaborative.

2. Host Partner Agency Conversations – The subcommittee is committed to offering strategic meetings where the partner agency teams are encouraged to share issues they are facing. The effort will include a cost sharing program where partner agency staff can anonymously report incidents of racism so this information is tracked and opportunities for accountability and change occurs.

3. Training – The subcommittee is seeking viable training for partner agencies’ staff as needed to include proposing a select microaggression video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQ9l7y4UuxY as part of the onboarding process of all partner agencies.

4. Evaluate Internal Practices – The subcommittee is committed to continually evaluating internal policies and procedures to ensure a consistent eye is on racial equality in all aspects of the collaborative.

The BIPOC subcommittee recommends that each member organization of HCDVCC include the following language in their DEI policies regarding equity vs equality:

While the terms equity and equality may sound similar, the implementation of one versus the other can lead to dramatically different outcomes for marginalized people.

Equality means each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities. Equity recognizes that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome. Therefore, racial equity recognizes and acknowledges the oppression and subjugation of racial minorities and strives to achieve fairness depending on current status and need. Racial equity is intentional and provides the resources and opportunities needed for BIPOC staff so they can reach an equal outcome to their white counterparts.

In addition, ORGANIZATION NAME prioritizes racial equity for Black and Indigenous staff first due to their being the recipients of the most severe and ongoing oppression and thus discrimination and maltreatment.

“The route to achieving equity will not be accomplished through treating everyone equally. It will be achieved by treating everyone justly according to their circumstances.”
—Paula Dressel, Race Matters Institute 1

Categories
Stalking Awareness Month Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Bridging the Gap Between Stalking Awareness and Teen Dating Violence Prevention

As we bid farewell to January, which is Stalking Awareness Month, we turn our attention to February, designated as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. While these two observances may seem distinct, they share a vital common thread – the urgent need to protect individuals, particularly young people, from abusive relationships and ensure their safety. In this article, we explore how Domestic Violence (DV) agencies, such as HCDVCC, work tirelessly to address both issues and the significance of these awareness months occurring consecutively. 

Stalking Awareness Month: 

Stalking Awareness Month in January serves as a critical reminder of the prevalence and severity of stalking, a pervasive form of harassment that affects millions of individuals each year. Stalking can take various forms, from online harassment to intrusive physical surveillance, causing profound distress and fear for victims. DV agencies play a crucial role during this month by raising awareness about stalking, providing resources for victims, and advocating for legal protections against stalking behaviors. 

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month: 

February, Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, shines a spotlight on the alarming issue of dating violence among teenagers and young adults. Many young people find themselves in abusive relationships characterized by emotional, physical, or psychological abuse. DV agencies are at the forefront of efforts to educate teens about healthy relationships, recognize warning signs, and provide support for those facing dating violence. By dedicating a whole month to this cause, society acknowledges the importance of addressing these issues early on to break the cycle of abuse. 

The Intersection: 

The timing of these awareness months, back-to-back, is not merely a coincidence. It highlights the interconnectedness of stalking and teen dating violence. In many cases, stalking behaviors can escalate within dating relationships, becoming a precursor to more severe forms of abuse. DV agencies understand this dynamic and utilize Stalking Awareness Month as a platform to emphasize the warning signs of potential dating violence within the context of stalking. 

DV agencies often collaborate with schools, youth organizations, and community groups during February to reach teenagers and educate them about the dangers of abusive relationships. By raising awareness about both stalking and teen dating violence, these agencies aim to empower young individuals to recognize unhealthy behaviors and seek help when needed. 

Empowering Youth: 

Empowering young people to recognize, report, and prevent abusive behaviors is central to the mission of DV agencies. By addressing both stalking and teen dating violence, these agencies strive to create a safer environment for youth. Prevention and education programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns are just some of the tools they use to foster healthy relationships and ensure that young individuals have the knowledge and resources to protect themselves. 

The consecutive observance of Stalking Awareness Month and Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder of the collective commitment to ending abusive behaviors and protecting our youth. Domestic Violence agencies play an indispensable role in addressing these issues and bridging the gap between awareness and action. By working together and leveraging the significance of these awareness months, we can empower young people to build safe, respectful relationships and break the cycle of abuse.

Categories
Stalking Awareness Month

The Chilling Connection – Cyber Stalking and Intimate Partner Violence

The digital age has transformed the way we connect and communicate, offering unprecedented opportunities for social interaction, work, and entertainment. However, it has also given rise to new forms of abuse and harassment, with cyber stalking being one of the most troubling manifestations. This article delves into the world of cyber stalking, its devastating impact on victims, and its chilling connection to intimate partner violence (IPV).

Understanding Cyber Stalking

Cyber stalking can be defined as a pattern of persistent and unwanted online behavior, wherein an individual or group uses digital platforms to harass, threaten, or intimidate another person. The motivation behind cyber stalking can vary, but it is typically driven by an obsession, a desire for control, or a need for revenge. Victims of cyber stalking often experience severe emotional distress, anxiety, and fear for their safety.

Methods of Cyber Stalking

Cyber stalkers employ a variety of tactics to harass their victims, which can include:

  • Harassing Messages: This can involve sending threatening or explicit messages through email, social media, or text messages.
  • Impersonation: Perpetrators may create fake profiles or impersonate the victim online, spreading false information or engaging in inappropriate conduct in the victim’s name.
  • Monitoring and Surveillance: Cyber stalkers might use spyware or hacking techniques to gain access to the victim’s personal information, including their location, online activity, and private messages.
  • Online Shaming: Posting humiliating or derogatory content about the victim on public forums, social media, or websites is another common tactic.
  • Doxxing: Revealing the victim’s personal information, such as their home address or phone number, can put them at physical risk.

The Connection to Intimate Partner Violence

Cyber stalking is often closely intertwined with intimate partner violence (IPV), a pattern of abusive behaviors within an intimate relationship. The digital realm provides new avenues for abusers to exert control and power over their partners. Here’s how cyber stalking connects to IPV:

  • Control and Isolation: Cyber stalking can be used by an abusive partner to control and isolate their victim. By monitoring their online activity, the abuser can track the victim’s interactions, restrict their communication with friends and family, and exert a significant level of control over their daily life.
  • Threats and Intimidation: Abusers may use cyber stalking tactics to issue threats, both online and offline. The constant barrage of harassing messages and threats can create an environment of fear and submission within the relationship.
  • Digital Manipulation: Abusive partners may manipulate or coerce their victims through the use of explicit images, videos, or private information. This digital coercion can be used to maintain dominance and silence the victim.
  • Revenge Porn: In some cases, abusers resort to sharing explicit images or videos of their victims without consent, a cruel act known as revenge porn. This not only inflicts emotional harm but can also have severe legal consequences.

Addressing the Issue

The connection between cyber stalking and IPV underscores the importance of raising awareness and implementing preventive measures. Some key steps to address this issue include:

  • Education and Awareness: Promote awareness about cyber stalking, its connection to IPV, and its potential consequences. Educate individuals on how to recognize the signs and protect themselves.
  • Support for Victims: Create support networks and resources for victims, ensuring they have access to counseling, legal assistance, and online safety measures.
  • Legislation and Enforcement: Advocate for and enforce laws against cyber stalking and revenge porn, holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
  • Online Safety Measures: Encourage individuals to use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and be cautious about sharing personal information online. Report abusive behavior to online platforms and authorities.

Cyber stalking is a grave issue that not only invades personal privacy but also poses a significant threat to individuals in abusive relationships. Recognizing the connection between cyber stalking and intimate partner violence is crucial for addressing this modern-day challenge. By raising awareness, providing support to victims, and enforcing appropriate legislation, we can work towards a safer digital landscape for all.

Categories
Stalking Awareness Month

Stalking – Recognizing the Signs, Protecting Yourself, and Seeking Help

Stalking is a serious and invasive crime that affects millions of people worldwide. It involves a pattern of unwanted and often intimidating behaviors intended to make someone feel unsafe or harassed. Stalking can take many forms, from online harassment to physical intrusions into one’s personal space. In this article, we will explore the signs of stalking, offer tips on how to protect yourself, and provide guidance on what to do if you find yourself in such a distressing situation.

Understanding Stalking

Stalking is not limited to a specific age group, gender, or background. Anyone can become a victim of stalking, and it can have severe emotional and psychological consequences. To effectively combat stalking, it’s crucial to understand its different forms and recognize the signs.

Common Signs of Stalking

  • Unwanted Communication: Receiving persistent and unsolicited messages, phone calls, emails, or social media messages from someone despite your clear disinterest or requests to stop.
  • Surveillance: Feeling as though you are being watched, followed, or monitored, whether in person or online.
  • Unwanted Gifts or Surprises: Receiving unwanted gifts, flowers, or surprises, often accompanied by intimidating or obsessive messages.
  • Trespassing or Invasion of Privacy: Finding evidence of someone entering your home, workplace, or personal spaces without permission.
  • Cyberstalking: Experiencing online harassment, including the spreading of false information, posting intimate photos without consent, or hacking into your online accounts.
  • Manipulation and Control: The stalker may attempt to manipulate your life by spreading rumors, contacting your friends and family, or attempting to control your actions.
  • Persistent Following: Feeling as though you are being followed or encountering the same person repeatedly in different places.

Tips on Protecting Yourself

If you suspect you are being stalked or feel unsafe due to someone’s behavior, here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:

  • Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or unsettling, take it seriously. Your intuition can be a valuable tool in recognizing potential dangers.
  • Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of any communication, incidents, or encounters related to the stalking. This documentation can be essential for legal purposes.
  • Secure Your Personal Information: Review your online presence and make your social media profiles private. Change passwords regularly and be cautious about sharing personal information online.
  • Inform Trusted Individuals: Share your concerns with close friends, family members, or co-workers. They can offer support and be extra vigilant on your behalf.
  • Vary Your Routine: Change your daily routines to avoid predictable patterns. This can make it more difficult for a stalker to track your movements.
  • Install Security Measures: Consider installing security cameras, changing locks, or improving the security of your home or workplace.

What to Do if You Are Being Stalked

If you believe you are being stalked, it’s essential to take immediate action to protect yourself:

  • Contact Law Enforcement: Report the stalking to your local police department. Share all the evidence and documentation you’ve gathered.
  • Obtain a Restraining Order: Consult with an attorney or legal advocate to seek a restraining order or protective order against the stalker.
  • Seek Support: Reach out to organizations and support groups that specialize in helping stalking victims. They can offer guidance, resources, and emotional support.
  • Maintain Vigilance: Continue to be cautious and proactive in protecting yourself, even after taking legal action.

Stalking is a deeply distressing and dangerous experience, but it’s crucial to remember that help is available. By recognizing the signs of stalking, taking precautions, and seeking assistance from law enforcement and support organizations, you can take steps to protect yourself and regain control of your life. Remember, you are not alone, and there are people and resources dedicated to helping victims of stalking find safety and justice.

Categories
Holidays Op-eds

A Vision for 2024- Fostering Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention

Domestic violence is, as you know, a harrowing societal issue that affects countless individuals and families worldwide. As we look ahead to 2024, it is mandatory for us to collectively strive for a future marked by diminished violence within our homes and communities. Domestic Violence Awareness Agencies, community members, and law enforcement all play pivotal roles in this endeavor, working in tandem to raise awareness, improve education, and intervene effectively.

The Power of Active Bystanders

A fundamental aspect of reducing domestic violence lies in the empowerment of community members to become active bystanders. Such individuals are not merely passive witnesses but rather conscientious and courageous individuals willing to take action when they witness potentially abusive situations. The steps toward becoming an active bystander are as follows:

  1. Recognizing the Signs: Education is key; community members must familiarize themselves with the signs of domestic violence. These may include physical injuries, emotional distress, social isolation, or controlling behavior.
  2. Intervening Safely: When encountering an abusive situation, active bystanders should approach it calmly and non-confrontationally, prioritizing the safety of all involved parties. Offering support to the victim and discouraging the abusive behavior are crucial steps.
  3. Seeking Professional Assistance: In situations that may escalate or pose immediate danger, it is essential to call the police or a domestic violence hotline promptly. Timely intervention can be life-saving.
  4. Providing Ongoing Support: Beyond the crisis, active bystanders should offer sustained support to victims. Encouraging them to access local resources such as shelters, support groups, and counseling services can be instrumental in their healing journey.

 

Speaking Out: The Power of Voices

Silence is an accomplice to domestic violence. Community members must be encouraged to speak out and report abusive behavior when they encounter it. By doing so, they can become agents of change in their communities. This can be accomplished through:

  1. Reporting to Authorities: When witnessing or suspecting domestic violence, individuals should not hesitate to report it to law enforcement. Their information could be the catalyst for protecting a victim and holding the abuser accountable.
  2. Supporting Survivors: Encourage survivors to report abuse and provide unwavering emotional support throughout the process. Assure them that they are not alone in their journey toward justice and healing.

Empowering Law Enforcement Through Education

Law enforcement agencies are crucial players in addressing domestic violence. By enhancing the education and training provided to officers, we can ensure that they respond to these situations with sensitivity, expertise, and empathy. Improvements in this area should encompass:

  1. Specialized Training: Police departments should offer comprehensive, specialized training to officers on how to handle domestic violence cases. This training should encompass understanding the dynamics of abuse, victim advocacy, and de-escalation techniques.
  2. Cultural Competency: In a diverse society, it is paramount that law enforcement officers receive education in cultural sensitivity and diversity. Different communities may have unique needs and barriers when dealing with domestic violence.
  3. Collaboration with Advocacy Organizations: To develop a coordinated response that prioritizes victim safety, law enforcement agencies should work closely with domestic violence awareness agencies and advocacy groups.

Fostering Community Awareness

Building a safer future begins with fostering awareness within our communities. Several strategies can be employed to achieve this:

  1. Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch public awareness campaigns through local media, social media platforms, and community events. These campaigns should educate people about domestic violence, its signs, and the resources available to survivors.
  2. Education in Schools and Workshops: Integrate domestic violence education into school curriculums and community workshops. By teaching young people about healthy relationships and how to recognize abusive behavior, we can shape a future generation equipped to prevent domestic violence.
  3. Accessible Resources: Ensure that the community has easy access to vital resources, such as helplines, shelters, and counseling services. Make this information readily available to those in need.

Reducing domestic violence in 2024 and beyond necessitates a concerted and collective effort. Domestic Violence Awareness Agencies, community members, and law enforcement must collaborate to create a safer environment for everyone. By becoming active bystanders, speaking up against abuse, enhancing law enforcement education, and raising community awareness, we can draw closer to a future characterized by reduced domestic violence and increased support for survivors. Together, we can make a significant difference and ensure that every individual has the right to live free from fear and abuse. Let our shared commitment to this cause pave the way for a brighter, safer tomorrow.

Categories
Holidays Op-eds

Time to Reflect and Celebrate

As another year ends, it is time to reflect on the year that was. 2023 what a year! I remember looking forward to such a wonderful year (especially after surviving the chaos of Southwest Airlines!)  But never did I imagine what the world had in store for us. Two major wars raging, not to mention all the smaller conflicts that get little to no media coverage. Political turmoil, poverty, homelessness, hate crimes, and senseless violence throughout our country and the world. We lost many famous people this year (here is hoping you are eating a cheeseburger in paradise Jimmy Buffett and could heaven be any nicer for you Matthew Perry).

While I could fill line after line of all the terrible things that occurred this year I do want to reflect on some really good things:

  • The smile of a random stranger
  • The laugh of a child
  • A really needed hug
  • Cuddles with a pet
  • Supporters/funders who really understand what we need
  • Partners that are willing to work together
  • Watching co-workers blossom
  • Being able to say yes when everyone else has said no
  • The kindness of people
  • The strength and resilience of our clients
  • The strength and resilience of each one of us

I realize 2024 will bring many challenges, some that we know of, and I am sure many more we do not anticipate. But I cannot help but have gratitude for the things above and many more I did not list. I heard a friend say the other day, someone told her they start their day off with three things they are grateful for. So, I challenge you as I am challenging myself, to start your list of resolutions by finding at least one or two things to be grateful for every morning. My hope is that by the end of next year, your gratitude list is longer than just the few same old things each day!

Happy Holidays and cheers to an amazing New Year!

About the Author

Pic of Deputy Director Amy Smith

Senior Director of Operations and Communications at HCDVCC,

Amy Smith

Our Mission:
To improve Harris County’s response to domestic violence, we lead efforts to build collaborative systems and innovative programs that increase access to services and safety.
Our Vision:
We envision a community where all persons have relationships that are safe, healthy, and free from domestic violence.
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