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Tag: mental health

Categories
Holidays

When the Holidays Bring Harm: Understanding Domestic Violence During December

woman in a santa hat withchristmas trees in the background looking stressed with text "When the Holidays Bring Harm: Understanding Domestic Violence During December"
woman in a santa hat withchristmas trees in the background looking stressed with text "When the Holidays Bring Harm: Understanding Domestic Violence During December"

The December holidays are often portrayed as a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. But for many people living with domestic violence, this season brings heightened danger rather than comfort. Research consistently shows that domestic violence incidents increase during the holidays, creating urgent safety concerns for survivors and their families.

Why Violence Escalates During the Holidays

Several factors contribute to the rise in domestic violence during December. Financial stress intensifies as people face pressure to buy gifts, host gatherings, and meet seasonal expectations. Increased alcohol consumption at holiday parties and family gatherings can lower inhibitions and escalate conflicts. Forced proximity during time off work means survivors spend more continuous hours with their harm-doers, with fewer opportunities to seek help or find respite.

The social pressure to present a “perfect family” image can also trap survivors in dangerous situations. Many feel compelled to maintain appearances during holiday gatherings, making it harder to reach out for support or acknowledge the severity of their circumstances.

Recognizing the Signs

Domestic violence takes many forms beyond physical abuse. It includes emotional manipulation, economic control, isolation from friends and family, threats, intimidation, and coercive behavior. During the holidays, you might notice someone who seems anxious about their partner’s reaction to social interactions, makes excuses for injuries or frequent cancellations, or appears increasingly isolated from their support network.

How to Support Survivors Safely

If you suspect someone is experiencing domestic violence, your instinct may be to encourage them to leave immediately. However, leaving an abusive relationship is the most dangerous time for a victim. Research shows that the period during and immediately after separation sees the highest risk of severe violence or homicide. A harm-doer’s need to maintain control often escalates dramatically when they sense they’re losing power over their partner.

Instead of pressuring someone to leave, offer consistent, non-judgmental support. Let them know you’re concerned and available to help without demanding they take specific actions. Respect their timeline and their intimate knowledge of their own situation. Survivors are the experts on their own safety, and they’re often making careful calculations about when and how to leave based on factors outsiders can’t fully see.

You can offer practical support by helping them create a safety plan, which might include identifying safe spaces, keeping important documents accessible, establishing code words with trusted friends, and knowing where to access resources. Listen without judgment, believe what they tell you, and avoid criticizing their choices or their harm-doer, which can push them further into isolation.

Reporting Domestic Violence Responsibly

If you witness domestic violence or believe someone is in immediate danger, calling 911 is appropriate. However, be mindful that involving law enforcement isn’t always the safest option for every survivor, particularly for those in marginalized communities who may face additional risks from police interaction.

When reporting concerns, focus on observable behaviors and specific incidents rather than making assumptions. If you’re reporting on behalf of someone else, understand that this removes their control over the situation and could potentially escalate danger. Whenever possible, support the survivor in making their own decisions about reporting.

Resources and Support

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, confidential support is available 24/7 through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or by texting “START” to 88788. Online chat is also available at thehotline.org.

Local domestic violence agencies can provide crisis intervention, safety planning, emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and counseling services. Many organizations offer specialized support for specific communities and can help navigate the complex process of increasing safety, whether that involves leaving or staying.

Community Responsibility

Addressing domestic violence requires community-wide awareness and coordinated response. We all have a role to play in creating a culture that refuses to tolerate abuse, that believes in survivors, and that provides meaningful support without judgment.

This holiday season, the most important gift we can offer survivors is patience, respect for their autonomy, and unwavering support for whatever decisions they make about their own safety. Sometimes the most helpful thing we can do is simply let someone know: I see you, I believe you, and I’m here whenever you need me.

If you’re concerned about someone’s safety, trust your instincts but also trust their expertise in their own lives. Together, we can create communities where everyone can experience true safety and peace, not just during the holidays but every day of the year.

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)
Crisis Text Line: Text “START” to 88788
Online Chat: thehotline.org

Categories
DVAM neurofeedback

How Abuse Can Rewire Your Brain — And Why Healing Means Rewiring It Back

brain health. blue background with a brain and sunbeams coming out from the brain
brain health. blue background with a brain and sunbeams coming out from the brain

When Reese Witherspoon recently reflected on an abusive relationship she had when she was young, she said something powerful: “I had to rewire my brain.” It’s a vivid way of describing something many abuse survivors experience — the ways psychological, verbal, and emotional abuse actually change how your brain works and how you see yourself. By understanding how that happens, we can better support survivors on the path to healing.

What Reese Witherspoon Shared

✔️She left a relationship that was psychologically and verbally abusive.
✔️Afterward, she struggled with insecurity and a diminished spirit. She believed the ugly things her abuser had said.
✔️It took time to “reconstitute” herself — to rebuild self-esteem, self-worth, confidence.

Her story isn’t unique; it reflects what many people experience after leaving abuse. Let’s look at the science behind how abuse “rewires” the brain.

How Abuse Changes the Brain

Here are some of the ways emotional, verbal, or psychological abuse can reshape brain function, identity, and well‑being:

  • Stress Response, Cortisol, and HPA Axis Overload
    Abuse repeatedly activates the brain’s alarm systems. Chronic stress makes it harder to regulate emotions and increases risk for PTSD.
  • Altered Emotion Regulation & Threat Perception
    The amygdala becomes hyperactive, making neutral things feel dangerous. The prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, which help regulate and recall safe memories, weaken.
  • Self‑Image and Sense of Self Distorted
    Repeated messages of worthlessness get internalized and treated as truth. Survivors often believe the abuse was who they are.
  • Changes in Brain Structure
    Emotional and verbal abuse can alter brain regions tied to self-awareness, empathy, and reward processing.
  • Behavioral and Psychological Effects
    Survivors often face anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, difficulty trusting others, and challenges in decision-making.
  • Long‑Term Physical Health Consequences
    Chronic stress can also contribute to health issues like heart disease, sleep problems, and immune disorders.

What “Rewiring” Means — And How Healing Happens

The brain is plastic — meaning it can change. Rewiring isn’t just a metaphor. Healing can happen with time, support, and intentional practices:

  1. Therapies such as CBT, trauma-focused therapy, EMDR, and somatic practices.
  2. Supportive relationships that affirm and respect survivors.
  3. Mindfulness and meditation to calm the stress system.
  4. Self-compassion and reframing negative thoughts.
  5. Safe environments and boundaries.
  6. Gradually practicing new, healthier patterns.

“EMDR is a form of re-processing that helps the brain create new neural pathways to guide clients towards healing. It uses the concept of bi-lateral stimulation to replace the negative emotions, sensation and images associated with the traumatic experience to more positive feelings or desensitizes the client to the negative feelings.” – Mariyam Imtiaz, LCSW – HCDVCC Trauma Support Partner

Why It Matters for HCDVCC & Our Community

  • Awareness: Psychological abuse leaves wounds that are invisible but deeply damaging.
  • Access to Mental Health Resources: Survivors need long‑term support, not just immediate safety.
  • Training: Professionals benefit from understanding how abuse affects the brain, improving survivor support.
  • Prevention: Education helps stop abuse and promotes healthier communication in families and communities.

Reese Witherspoon’s message — “I had to rewire my brain” — reveals the real impact abuse can have. But it also points to hope. The brain can heal, self-worth can be rebuilt, and survivors can find their way back to themselves. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, know that help and healing are possible. You are more than what was said to you. Your brain can rewire. And one day, you can remember who you are without those painful messages.

Categories
IPV and LGBTQIA Mental Health Awareness Month Sexual Assault

Domestic Violence in the LGBTQIA Community: A Hidden Crisis

 

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the diversity and resilience of the LGBTQIA community. However, it is also an important moment to acknowledge and address the significant challenges faced by this community, including domestic violence. Understanding the unique dynamics and statistics surrounding intimate partner violence (IPV) in the LGBTQIA community is crucial for effective prevention and support.

Statistics and Trends
Domestic violence in the LGBTQIA community is a pervasive issue that often goes underreported and underacknowledged. Nationally, research shows that 43.8% of lesbian women and 61.1% of bisexual women have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner at some point in their lives. For gay and bisexual men, the rates are 26% and 37.3%, respectively. These rates are significantly higher than those reported by heterosexual individuals, indicating a troubling disparity.

In Houston and Harris County, Texas, the situation reflects broader national trends. Domestic violence homicides have increased sharply in recent years, with intimate partner violence homicides in the area doubling from 32 in 2019 to 64 in 2022. The increase in calls to shelters and domestic violence hotlines also highlights the growing need for resources and support for victims in the region.

Why It Happens
Several factors contribute to the high rates of domestic violence in the LGBTQIA community:

  • Stigma and Discrimination: LGBTQIA individuals often face societal stigma and discrimination, which can isolate them and make it harder to seek help.
  • Lack of Support Services: Many domestic violence services are not equipped to handle the unique needs of LGBTQIA individuals, leading to a lack of accessible and appropriate resources.
  • Internalized Homophobia/Biphobia/Transphobia: Internalized negative beliefs about one’s own LGBTQIA identity can contribute to staying in an abusive relationship.
  • Outing as a Threat: Abusers may threaten to “out” their partners to family, friends, or employers as a form of control.

Who Is More Frequently Affected
Certain groups within the LGBTQIA community are more vulnerable to domestic violence:

  1. Transgender Individuals: Transgender people, particularly transgender women of color, experience disproportionately high rates of violence and homicide.
  2. Bisexual Individuals: Bisexual individuals often face abuse from both same-sex and different-sex partners.
  3. Youth: LGBTQIA youth are at higher risk of experiencing dating violence, often compounded by lack of family support.

Tips for Victims of Intimate Partner Violence

  • Reach Out for Help: Contact local LGBTQIA-friendly domestic violence organizations and hotlines. In Houston, the Montrose Center provides specialized services for LGBTQIA individuals facing domestic violence.
  • Create a Safety Plan: Develop a plan that includes safe places to go, people you can call, and important items to take if you need to leave an abusive situation quickly.
  • Document the Abuse: Keep a record of incidents, including dates, times, and descriptions of the abuse. This can be useful for legal action or obtaining protective orders.
  • Seek Legal Protection: Obtain a protective order if necessary. Legal services are available to help navigate this process.
  • Therapy and Support Groups: Engage in therapy or support groups that cater to LGBTQIA individuals to receive emotional support and validation.

Addressing domestic violence in the LGBTQIA community requires a multifaceted approach that includes increasing awareness, improving access to resources, and fostering an environment where victims feel safe and supported to seek help. During Pride Month, and beyond, it is essential to continue advocating for the rights and safety of all individuals within the LGBTQIA community.

For more information on resources and support in the Houston area, you can visit the Montrose Center’s website.

Categories
Mental Health Awareness Month

The Invisible Wounds: How Domestic Violence Leaves Lasting Scars on Mental Health

Domestic violence doesn’t end when someone escapes. Even after the bruises fade and the locks are changed, the impact lingers—especially on mental health. For survivors, the trauma of abuse can be a quiet, constant companion that affects how they think, feel, connect, and function every day. During Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s important to recognize that for many survivors, healing is not just physical—it’s emotional and psychological too.

Abuse Isn’t Just Physical—It’s Psychological

Domestic violence often includes more than physical harm. It can be emotional, verbal, financial, and psychological. Survivors are frequently told they’re worthless, isolated from support systems, stalked, threatened, or financially controlled. Over time, this can completely erode a person’s sense of self and safety.

According to the National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma & Mental Health, survivors of domestic violence experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal thoughts than the general population. These mental health struggles are not signs of weakness—they’re normal responses to prolonged trauma.

“One of the most harmful impacts of abuse is the way it changes how survivors see themselves and the world around them,” says the center.

The Long Road to Recovery

Many survivors live with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), even years after leaving an abusive partner. Flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and avoidance behaviors can make everyday life exhausting. Others experience depression, feeling numb, hopeless, or disconnected. Anxiety—about safety, relationships, money, or parenting—is also common.

Some survivors also turn to coping mechanisms like substance use or self-isolation, which can further complicate their recovery.

And yet, mental health support is not always easy to access. For many, the stigma of both domestic violence and mental health struggles keeps them silent. Others face barriers like cost, lack of culturally relevant services, or fear of not being believed.

What Survivors Need Most

Mental health care for survivors needs to be trauma-informed and survivor-centered. That means providers must understand the dynamics of abuse and avoid re-traumatizing the person. Therapy should help survivors regain control over their lives, not shame them for their symptoms.

Support from friends, family, and community also plays a huge role. Just listening without judgment, validating a survivor’s experience, or helping them access resources can make a difference.

As we mark Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s important to remember – healing doesn’t happen on a timeline. Survivors need space, patience, and support.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, confidential help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or visit www.thehotline.org.  Or you can visit one of these for Mental Health assistance:

This is a 24/7 confidential resource for individuals in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. You can call or text 988, or chat online at 988lifeline.org. 

A 24-hour, confidential service for veterans and those who support them, even if they are not enrolled in VA healthcare. You can connect by calling 988, then pressing “1”, or by texting 838255. 

A statewide network connecting individuals with local resources and information, including mental health support. You can call 2-1-1, or dial 2-1-1 option 8 for behavioral health support. 

Provides information on state-funded crisis services and mental health authorities in your county. You can search for local mental health authorities by entering “mental health crisis” along with your ZIP code. 

A confidential and anonymous resource for mental and substance use disorders. 

A website that provides information about treatment facilities and resources for mental and substance use disorders. 

A grassroots organization dedicated to building better lives for individuals affected by mental illness, offering support, education, and advocacy. 

Sources:

Texas Council on Family Violence 89th Legislative Agenda


April 23


@

5:55 pm

Free

Thecia Jenkins

United Way of Greater Houston

50 Waugh Street

Houston,

TX

United States

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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) “The mission! The end goal of what I do has to be meaningful in that at the end of the day, I have been able to help someone in need, in my own small way.”

2) “Too many vulnerable people who are unaware there is help for them, so they are able to save themselves and escape their suffering.”

3) “Exercise, spending a lot of time outdoors in nature, and surrounding myself with my family and friends.”

4) “The learning curve is steep and challenging but extremely rewarding and fulfilling.”
1)”I was drawn to the field of nonprofit after I started to volunteer at M.D. Anderson Cancer Hospital. when I was 14 years old.”

2) “My older sister was in a very bad Domestic Violence relationship that almost took her life. I wanted to understand why she allowed someone to treat her so poorly. When I went to the University of Houston I graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Inner Disciplinary studies. That started my career in helping make a difference in the lives of survivors.”

3) “I make sure that I take time to do something that makes me smile every day. Music has always been therapy for my soul.”

4) “I have learned a lot about healthy relationships and that saying “no” is not a bad thing it’s a way to set healthy boundaries.”
1) “The belief that the focus of work is not for a financial profit, rather for the profit of impacting and assist with changing people’s lives.”

2) “Advocacy in domestic violence issues allows my loud voice to be heard for all victims that was silenced.”

3) “Daily I ground myself through prayer, meditation, singing, dancing, exercise, breathing, gratitude, and hugging on the little people that call me mom and grandma!”

4) “This journey called life was and is not easy, yet it feels like a walk in the park, and I am grateful to be here.”
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
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