Domestic Violence Volunteer Community Response Team Coming to Vernon County

Family & Children’s Center along with Vernon County Sheriff’s Department and Stonehouse Counseling hosted a 2-day training on March 13 and 14, welcoming the founders of the P.E.A.C.E. Initiative from San Antonio, Texas.  Patricia S. Castillo, L.M.S.W., and Jane Shafer shared their knowledge of starting a grassroots movement in San Antonio that continues to be a strong community-run program more than 30 years later.  The P.E.A.C.E. Initiative is a diverse coalition of grassroots organizations, public and private institutions, and individuals working collaboratively to eradicate family violence through education and mobilization.

The day consisted of about 45 people from law enforcement, the faith community, local nonprofits, county board members, and other interested parties gathering to learn about domestic violence, how to help victims and survivors, as well as next steps to take action in our own community through volunteer efforts.

We know that victims need to feel safe and to not feel judged.  They also need information on community resources, personal connections, and restoration of their spirit, health, and hope.  Through the newly developing community initiative, H.E.A.R.T. – Helping End Abuse Response Team, we will be able to do this and so much more!  The H.E.A.R.T. will consist of community volunteers who will work with local law enforcement and be present when a domestic violence call is taken.  We are looking for many volunteers to be a part of this movement, so please spread the word and consider becoming a volunteer yourself.

H.E.A.R.T. is being developed as we speak and the first volunteer training will take place on May 23.

Contact Mary Jacobson at Family & Children’s Center for more information or to sign up for the volunteer training.  mjacobson@fccnetwork.org or 608-668-2223.