September 27: Women Leadership Alliance Day of Collaboration

Behind closed doors, an estimated 30,000 acts of domestic violence occur every year in Dutchess County. Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of coercive control, in which the relationship is characterized by increasingly violent and controlling behavior of an extended length of time. The abuse is not just physical violence against a partner – it can be sexual, emotional, psychological and financial as well. One in four women in their lifetime will experience domestic violence, and yet shame and social stigma continue to silence their voices. We must stand up for one another and as leaders of our communities raise our voices against domestic violence.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Women’s Leadership Alliance is proud to be collaborating with Grace Smith House to bring awareness of this crucial issue to our members. Grace Smith House is celebrating their 35th anniversary this year. For the past 35 years, Grace Smith House’s mission has been to empower survivors and their families to live free of domestic violence, offering shelter, advocacy, counseling and preventative education to Dutchess County. Grace Smith House offers free training to organizations and companies on the signs of domestic abuse, how to assist those suffering from abuse, and how to get help yourself.
Throughout October, Grace Smith House is hosting a range of events to increase community awareness of domestic violence, including lectures and presentations, benefit drives, and fundraisers. For a list of events, please visit http://gracesmithhouse.org/events/details/121-gsh-35th-anniversary-october-events. Please consider donating or participating to Grace Smith House and their mission during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. To learn more about the signs and types of domestic violence, and for more information about their events visit Grace Smith House at www.gracesmithhouse.org. If you or someone you love needs help, call Grace Smith House’s 24-hour crisis hotline, (845) 471-3033