Nonprofit organization in Grand Island promotes domestic violence awareness
October is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, but just because it's the last day of October doesn’t mean that the issue goes away.
By News Channel NebraskaGRAND ISLAND, Neb. -- October is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, but just because it's the last day of October doesn’t mean that the issue goes away.
Willow Rising, a nonprofit organization in Grand Island, provides support to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking.
Willow Rising Executive Director Karla Schwieger-Arnold said the organization helps victims stop that cycle of violence.
“It makes a difference for me in my heart when we’re able to help somebody understand and see that there is another way to live, there is a safe way that you can enjoy your life with your family, your children,” Schwieger-Arnold said.
According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner. The organization also said one in four women and one in nine men experience severe intimate partner physical violence.
Schwieger-Arnold is also aware of the difficulties some people might have when trying to seek help.
“It’s really hard to raise your hand and say 'this is happening to me' because many times were taught to believe that 'it’s my fault its happening to me' or 'will people look down on me if this is happening to me'," Schwieger-Arnold said "So to really say that guess what, you’re not alone.”
Willow Rising services are confidential and provided without charge, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. These services are available for the counties of Hall, Hamilton, Howard, and Merrick.