5 Ways to Make an Impact Against Domestic Violence in October

Posted on October 18, 2023 at 6:00 am

Guest blog by Taffy Hunter

Domestic Violence Awareness/Action Month

Preventing domestic violence requires a collective and proactive effort from every community member. It goes beyond mere awareness and encompasses diverse strategies and initiatives to create a culture of respect and empathy. These initiatives are tailored to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and resources to foster healthy, respectful relationships.

Central to prevention work is educating communities about the complex dynamics of domestic violence. It involves helping people recognize warning signs and providing the tools and resources necessary for timely intervention and support. By building awareness, communities become more adept at identifying potentially harmful situations and acting before they escalate.

Ultimately, prevention aims to build a society where violence has no place. It envisions a community where everyone can thrive in safe, nurturing environments regardless of background or circumstances. By actively engaging in prevention efforts, we protect individuals and families and create a more compassionate and harmonious society. Together, we can build a future free from violence.

October offers an ideal platform to foster community awareness, education, and support for domestic violence prevention. For the third year, Domestic Violence Action Month (also known as National Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month) is when the Spokane Regional Domestic Violence Coalition (SRDVC) is dedicated to a month-long series of engaging activities. These initiatives promote awareness and support through enjoyable, interactive, and approachable opportunities.

Ways to Get Involved

In-Person Events

The SIP Benefit Comedy Show, brought to you by SRDVC, promises to be an evening filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to ending domestic violence in our community. Your presence at this event is an opportunity to enjoy a great show by Dave Bressoud, and all proceeds directly support our advocacy and prevention programming in the community.

Online Auction: All Month Long

SIP Benefit Comedy Show
(tickets must be purchased to attend)
Highball at Northern Quest Resort & Casino
100 N Hayford Rd, Airway Heights
Saturday, Oct 21, 5pm

Support SRDVC by participating in an online auction featuring a range of packages, each promising enjoyable experiences and contributing to a safer Spokane. The proceeds directly fund critical initiatives that address pressing issues and improve lives. Every winning bid brings us a step closer to ending the violence. Head to the SIP Auction web page to check out the available items and packages.

Purple for a Purpose: All Month Long

SRDVC and Stop the Silence Spokane are thrilled to bring back the third annual Purple for a Purpose promotion. This month-long event allows you to partner with us to end the violence in Spokane by committing to eat, drink, and shop at the over 100 participating businesses in Spokane County.

For a list of participating businesses, go to www.purple4apurpose.com.

Wear Purple on Thursdays: All Month Long

Wear purple each Thursday throughout October to support Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the movement to end the violence. Capture a photo of your purple attire showing your support and tag SRDVC on social media and share the following hashtags:

• Instagram @spokaneregionaldvcoalition
• Facebook @spokanedomesticviolencecoalition
• Use hashtags #stopthesilencespokane #P4PSpokane #purple4apurposespokane #endtheviolencespokane

Take Action: October 26 is #GiveforDV Day

As we approach Give for DV Day on October 26, consider contributing to SRDVC’s mission. Every donation, large or small, brings us one step closer to ending the cycle of violence. You can contribute on the SRDVC’s Donation web page.

The Purple for a Purpose Booklist

The library has created the booklist Purple for a Purpose: October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which has great titles to read to learn more about this topic. I encourage you to check out one of these informative reads today.

By equipping ourselves and each other with the knowledge, skills, and resources to nurture healthy, respectful relationships, we lay the foundation for a safer, more compassionate and harmonious community.

Taffy Hunter is the Outreach and Education Coordinator for the Spokane Regional Domestic Violence Coalition. She is a writer, blogger, and speaker with experience as a legal and family advocate for those who have experienced domestic violence. Her educational background in human services and early childhood education make her a strong domestic violence advocate and educator. In Taffy’s free time, she enjoys traveling with her four teenagers, raising her flock of ducks, and working on DIY projects.

Tags: community, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, dv, Puple for a Purpose, Spokane Regional Domestic Violence Coalition, srdvc