I have had the pleasure of being part of the WCA team for a year now. It has been amazing to see our community come together in altruistic ways to support our organization’s mission of safety, healing and freedom from domestic abuse and sexual assault especially during the current state of our world.
During this unique situation that humanity is faced against, we have continued to see a rise in domestic violence and sexual assault. At the height of the pandemic in April, our domestic violence-related hotline calls increased by 194% from 2019. In August we have continued to see significant increases – from 98 in 2019 to 200 calls in 2020. These figures are daunting but through the assistance of our community, we are able to help those in times of crisis.
Currently assisting in coordinating our organization’s external events, I have found that so many groups, organizations and individuals are willing to help create an event on behalf of the WCA and our clients. Businesses and organizations in the valley have shown their support to us by holding raffles, donating a portion of their sales and donated tips from their service staff. We have also had individuals utilize their natural skills such as photography, baking and crafting to raise donations.
We are truly grateful that we have all this wonderful support from our community. Maya Angelou said, “I have found that among its other benefit, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” If you, your team and/or your organization would like to learn more about hosting an event on behalf of the WCA and our clients please contact me at [email protected].