Once again we are sickened to hear of an apparent domestic violence homicide in our service area. Tragedies like what has unfolded in Arlington are a stark reminder that the warning signs of abuse are not always easy to spot, and that domestic violence happens in all types of relationships, in all types of communities. Our deepest sympathies go out to those who are suffering from…
As you can imagine, Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is a busy time of year here at REACH. We started off the month with our Waltham Neighborhoods Fall Festival, which brought community members out on a Saturday afternoon to get to know one another, hear some great music, and participate in fun group activities. Then, with a little less than two weeks to go until our…
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is in full swing! Are you looking for ways to participate? Here are 10 things you can do: 1. Tell people! Talking about domestic violence takes away the shame and stigma that allows abuse to thrive. Say to a friend, “Hey, did you know October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month?” Share REACH’s Facebook posts or re-tweet our #DVAM content as an easy…
October 1st marks the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). We asked the members of our Survivor Speakers Bureau why we need DVAM, and here is what one of them had to say. I had never heard of DV awareness month. Why would I – it had nothing to do with me, right? I mean, I heard people talk about domestic violence. I watched movies…
This year marks the 10th Annual Reach for the Stars gala. We can’t believe how much has changed in 10 years, and yet how many familiar faces still join us to celebrate each year. If you haven’t been able to join us for the past couple of years, we’d invite you to come back and see what you’ve been missing. If you’ve been with us all…
REACH is pleased to announce that we have hired a new Director of Prevention Programs! Jessica Hollander joined our staff last month and is already bringing a new energy and enthusiasm to our prevention work. We sat down for a little Q&A to get to know her better: Q: Tell us a little about yourself. A: I grew up in Newton, Massachusetts and attended Newton North…
The REACH Annual Meeting: It happens every year, and every year we walk away inspired and rejuvenated to continue this important work. Here’s a recap if you weren’t able to join us: The evening started with a reception, full of wonderful food (as promised!) and a chance for folks to mill around, chat, and check out some of our photo displays. We chose to highlight three…
We know, it’s a busy time of year and there are lots of demands on your time. So we thought we’d give you a few good reasons why you should come to the REACH Annual Meeting next week. 1. Good food: the venue and the snacks are provided by our good friends at the Massachusetts Medical Society, and they’re always a hit. 2. Susan Fargo –…
Last week, REACH joined representatives from other Jane Doe Inc. member agencies at the Massachusetts State House to tell legislators and their staff about the lifesaving work that we do and the need to keep funding it. Here’s what Jane Doe’s website has to say: “On a daily basis, community programs are working to prevent sexual and domestic violence and create safer communities. These services provide…
What does immigration have to do with domestic violence? More than you might think. Immigrant victims of domestic violence suffer disproportionately from the effects of domestic violence. They are often isolated, may not have access to bilingual support services, and are often afraid for their immigration status. Sometimes they come from countries where law enforcement and the courts are corrupt and not to be trusted. Many…
