Taking Flight: May 2020

24-Hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 208.343.7025 24-hour Rape Crisis Hotline: 208.345.7273 (RAPE)

The BeaLine (YouTube video)

Bea Black, Executive Director

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. I think we can all agree that we need a month dedicated to mental health now more than ever. Try to find activities and practices that help you find your calm—maybe take a break from negative or anxiety-causing news. Thankfully, the weather has been cooperating, and it’s a great time to get outside!

We want everyone to know that you are not alone if you are in an unsafe, or violent relationship. Home is not safe for everyone, but our doors are open, and our services have not missed a beat. We are thankful for the way our community has shown us such amazing support throughout this time. We couldn’t do our work without you. Thank you.

Bea

Our Doors Are Open

You Are Not Alone.

While we understand the necessity of continuing to follow social distancing guidelines to slow the spread of COVID-19, we also recognize that home is not a safe place for everyone.

Over the past weeks, we’ve tried our best to keep the community updated with any changes to our operations or services. The most important thing to know is that our doors are open. If you or someone you know is in an unsafe domestic situation, especially now that they may have even more limited access to outside resources, please call our hotline at (208) 343-7025. If it is not safe to make a call, our Crisis Center at 720 W. Washington Street is still open Monday-Friday 8:30-4 p.m.

To read more about our response to COVID-19 and executive director, Bea’s latest messages, click here.

Supporting Our Clients

Our community is constantly giving back and supporting our clients on their journey to safety, healing and freedom. Especially during these times, our work is only possible through the support of our community.

We would like to highlight just a few special cases that have happened recently.

There are simply too many companies, families, and individuals to list. Check out our Facebook page for more fun photos and stories!

Idaho Gives Back

The Idaho Gives campaign organized by the Idaho Nonprofit Center highlighted over the last two weeks the generosity of the people of Idaho. This generosity raised $3,000,000 to support non-profits around the state. We used this opportunity to highlight the fantastic partners we have. We are humbled by the outpouring of support for our clients and we so very thankful for the other nonprofits in our area that help provide our clients with the tools and resources they need along their path to finding a life free from abuse and trauma.

Like the WCA, so many local nonprofits have had to display unprecedented levels of grit and adaptability during the past few weeks and we are grateful for the continued opportunities to partner and get through this together.

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Save the Date! SueB 5K/10K

Please join us for the 11th Annual SueB 5K/10K both virtually and in person at Julia Davis Park on Sunday, October 4 at 1:00pm and online on WCA social media channels.

Every year in October for Domestic Violence Awareness Month we honor the life of Susan “SueB” Newby who died in 2008 from what many believe was domestic violence. The WCA is honored to partner with Sue’s family and friends to host this event that brings awareness to domestic abuse and promotes healthy relationships. This family friendly event brings together the community for a great time and a great message with food trucks, kids activities, and more.

Beginning on June 1 for National Running Week, registration for both the 5K and 10K will be only $20! Watch our social media channels and newsletters for more information on how and where to register.

Staff Spotlight

Meet our new Outreach Coordinator, Becca Maguire!

How long have you been with the WCA?
I am the new Outreach Coordinator, and I have been in this position for a little over a month and a half.

What does that position cover?
I will be educating the community on domestic abuse, sexual assault, and the different services the WCA offers.

What is your background in?
I previously worked at Crane Creek as the Activities Director, and before that I was an AmeriCorps VISTA working on food insecurity. I have my Bachelor’s of Science in Sociology and a Master’s in Community Leadership.

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Corporate Pillar Spotlight: Schroeder Creative

We are so honored to highlight our fabulous Freedom Level Corporate Pillar, Schroeder Creative, owned by Mike Schroeder. For the past seven years Mike has been our extraordinary pro bono graphic designer of our Annual Report, WCA event invitations and creative thematic elements of the yearly TWIN Awards program. We could not do what we do without Mike.

We asked Mike to describe his work and business ethic in his words:

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Wish List

As we adhere to Governor Little’s phased rebound Idaho plan, we are currently not able to accept donations at our office at this time.

However, gift cards for grocery and gas can be still purchased online and emailed to [email protected].

The Philanthropy Files

Laura Honn, Philanthropy Manager

The Philanthropy Files: A Note on Gratitude

I wanted to take this time to say thank you to everyone who took action during our Day of Action on April 16. I am thrilled to announce that we raised just over $135,000 during a 24-hour period. This will help us continue to provide safety, healing and freedom from domestic abuse and sexual assault in our community.

Importantly, so many people took action in ways that helped improve the visibility of WCA services in our community.

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The Compassion Project

Chris Davis, Communications Manager

The Compassion Project:
Adjusting and Growth

Like many of you, we at the WCA have had to figure out new ways of doing and being during these times. This has meant working from home for some of us and changes in the way we deliver services to keep clients and staff safe. Change is never easy—especially change that we did not plan for or expect. But, there is always a silver lining. We have realized the opportunity this has given us to explore new ways to engage with our supporters and those who may utilize our services.

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