October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and we are looking forward to hosting, coordinating, and supporting many events in its honor. Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an important time for us to honor those who have been affected by this issue and create strategies to end violence in our community.
Schedule of Events
October 1 - Art Walk
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. The Leopold (1224 Cornwall Ave.)
Note: We are currently accepting art submissions for the Art Walk. Please click here for more details on submitting your piece.
To kick off the month, DVSAS will be participating in Bellingham’s Downtown Art Walk by displaying works of art created by those whose lives have been touched by domestic violence directly or indirectly. If you or someone you know would like to submit artwork to be displayed as a part of the exhibit, or for more information, please contact Liz Hall at ; Free.
October 3 - Race For The End
Registration 8:30 a.m., Race starts 9:30 a.m. Bloedel Donovon Park (2214 Electric Ave)
5k -10k Walk/Run joint fundraiser and awareness activity for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services (DVSAS) and Womencare Shelter. Registration fee $15. For more information call DVSAS 671-5714 or visit www.dvsas.org.
October 7 - Domestic Violence Awareness Month Vigil
6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Whatcom County Courthouse (311 Grand Ave)
The vigil will include music and speakers addressing what is being done in the community to address domestic violence. The Seventh Annual Domestic Violence Outstanding Achievement Award will also be presented. Free. For more information call Merrilee Gardner at 671- 8539.
October 12 - Labyrinth Walk for Healing
Between 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Bellingham Cruise Terminal (355 Harris Ave)
All members of the community are encouraged to join in a labyrinth walk for healing. A labyrinth is a symbol that relates to wholeness. Walking the labyrinth represents a journey to our center and back again into the world. There will be art materials available for an art project. The Labyrinth Walk is sponsored by the Bellingham-Whatcom County Commission Against Domestic Violence. Free. Call Sharry at 734-3720 for more information.
October 16 - Born in Flames: The DVSASlam
7pm doors open, event begins at 8 p.m. Jinx Art Space (306 Flora St.)
Citizens of Bellingham rejoice! Once again poetrynight brings you our annual slam to benefit DVSAS of Whatcom County. Six ladies take the stage to bring you "Born in Flames: The DVSASlam," an evening of spoken word performances, live music and libations! Best of all, every dime and dollar raised go directly to ending domestic violence in our community. $7
October 20-22 - Healing Generations to Change the Future
9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Lummi Community Building
(2334 Lummi View Dr.)
For more information call 384-2285.
October 26 - Intersections: Chemical Dependency and Domestic Violence with Cynthia Obtinario
2:00 - 4:00pm YWCA Ballroom (1026 N. Forest St.)
Cynthia Obtinario, from New Beginnings in Seattle, brings decades of experience in the chemical dependency field as well as nearly 12 years of experience in gender specific treatment and domestic violence victim services. Cindy has provided numerous workshops specializing in the integration of domestic violence and chemical dependency. Currently she provides: advocacy for women with substance use issues, consultation for staff, and community education on these topics. Also passionate about systems advocacy, Cindy was involved in the inception of Triple Play and is a current board member for the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence (WSCADV). $10 ($5 students) For more information contact Ann Suloway 734-4820 ext. 106.
Volunteer Opportunities
Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services Volunteer Training begins October 9.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer at Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services, please call 671-5714 or check www.dvsas.org for more information.
Womencare Shelter Volunteer Training
Make a meaningful contribution by becoming a volunteer. Trainings held every three months. For more information please call 671-8539.