By Jordan Favors | One in four women and one in seven men will be abused by their partner during the course of a romantic relationship. Statistics like these are the reason October Domestic Violence Awareness Month exists.
The Ark is a shelter in Brownwood for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence to be provided with resources and various forms of support. Their motto is Advocacy, Respect, and Kindness. These are the values that the Ark emphasizes across Brown, Coleman, and Comanche counties.
Brenda Butler, outreach legal liaison, serves The Ark by coordinating with law enforcement, working with crisis intervention, and so much more. She stated that Domestic Violence Awareness Month is important, because it is an opportunity to raise awareness and honor those that have lost their lives in abusive relationships.
“We have a report released annually during October that shows us how many people we’ve lost to domestic violence. This report allows us to honor those who have lost their lives to domestic violence. It brings community awareness to the fact that it is still an ongoing issue. In our service area, we lost approximately 28 more people than we did last year. It is still happening,” said Butler.
Butler stated that her job is very rewarding, and she values that the Ark is “client centered.”
“We meet clients where they’re at. For example, we have a licensed counselor on board, and we are not insurance led, so we can provide counseling and services for each client as long as we want. There shouldn’t be a time limit on healing, and, with us, there isn’t,” stated Butler.
The Ark hosts events throughout the month of October to raise awareness and share real stories to educate the public.
These events include Zumba nights for locals to gather in support of this great cause and enjoy a sense of community while wearing purple, the designated Domestic Violence Awareness Month color. This is just one of the many fundraising events used in an attempt to match the donations that the Ark receives.
There are numerous ways to support the Ark’s initiatives. These include volunteering, word of mouth, and donating through their amazon wish list.
The Ark’s Facebook Page is a great source of information regarding events, educational resources, and service opportunities. Whether you are serving directly or indirectly, opportunities are available and open for those interested in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness and The Ark.