10/09/2025
๐ October is , a time to honor survivors, remember victims, and unite communities in the fight against domestic abuse. This , I'm sharing why this matters so much โ not only to me, but also to Isla and Paisley.
1 in 4 women will experience violence by a partner during their lifetime. And, it's not as simple as just leavingโฆ
Research shows abusers often have a pattern of violence towards all members of the household โ including pets:
๐พ 71% of women in domestic violence shelters report their abuser threatened, injured, or killed a pet.
๐พ Nearly half of victims stay with an abuser rather than leave their pet behind.
๐พ As many as 25% of survivors will return because the abuser is using their pet as a means to get them back.
As a survivor, I know not only the agony of feeling unsafe in my own home, but also the agony of fearing for my dog's life every time my abuser got angry. I was so isolated โ the deep shame I carried kept me from sharing my story, let alone ask anyone for help. One morning, I finally had the timing and courage for me and my dog to escape that hell. I've been committed to the fight against domestic violence since that day.
๐ In 2024, I joined the Alianza DV Services Board of Directors. Alianza assists, supports, and empowers those whose lives are affected by abuse. Since 1980, Alianza has sheltered more than 10,000 women and children and assisted 22,000 others through community-based support programs.
๐ On Thursday, October 16, Alianza is hosting a Friendraiser โ an evening of awareness, community, and support. We've put so much time and love into creating a powerful event that will honor survivors' stories and bring hope and healing, and I hope you'll join me there.
๐ญ To The Moon by Beth Kander
๐๏ธ Thursday, October 16 โข 5:30-8:30 PM
๐ 52 Sumner, Springfield, MA
๐ด Light bites by Winterle Charcuterie Shop, LLC
๐ซ Tickets $20 at ๐ https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-friendraiser-for-alianza-dv-services-tickets-1562976708409
๐ You are not alone, and help is available.
๐ Alianza 24-hour hotline: 413.536.1628