OPTIONS
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Throughout the month of October, Options Domestic & Sexual Violence Services will engage in a variety of events to spread awareness about the prevalence and effects of domestic violence in our community.
Kicking off the month of activities and events, Options is hosting their third annual Purple Light Nights campaign with a tree lighting ceremony to remember the victims who lost their lives from domestic violence, support those who have survived domestic violence, and bring hope for those still suffering in silence.
Purple Light Nights is the inspiration of the Covington Domestic Violence Task Force in King County, Washington, designed to bring awareness to domestic violence issues and its affects upon children and families, and provide education on building healthy relationships. The campaign challenges neighborhoods and cities to light up the town with purple lights to demonstrate that domestic violence has NO place in our community.
The Options Purple Light Nights kickoff event will be held at Big Creek Crossing, 2918 Vine, Friday, October 5 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The event will start with a social hour that includes a display of Silent Witnesses who lost their lives due to domestic violence, free chili and cinnamon rolls donated by The Press, free coffee donated by Breathe Coffee House, and children’s activities hosted by the Lutheran Student’s Group and the Presbyterian Church.
At 7 p.m. speakers will include partners from law enforcement, HaysMed, and Jana’s Campaign – a Hays-based national education and violence prevention organization with the single mission of reducing gender and relationship violence. The kick-off event will wrap up with a moment of silence and recognition of the families of the Silent Witnesses.
Citizens wishing to stand in solidarity against domestic violence can show their support by shining purple lights in their businesses or homes throughout the month of October. Purple light bulbs can be purchased for $2 at the Purple Light Nights kickoff event and all month long at Breathe Coffee House, Hays Academy of Hair Design, Rejuvenations Day Spa, and Options.
Other Domestic Violence Awareness Month activities include a 30-Days of Social Media mini campaign on Options Facebook page and “Paint the Town Purple” day on October 12. Community members and business are encouraged to wear purple and post a picture of their group wearing purple with a sign saying “I wear purple because…”. Pictures can be posted directly to Options Facebook page or emailed to Tim Tarkelly at [email protected].
Additionally, Gutch’s Bar & Grill, 111 W. 7th St, is promoting a “Change a Life – Make a Difference” fundraising event throughout the month of October. Patrons can tell their server that they would like to round up their change to the nearest dollar and all proceeds will support the mission of Options. Brochures and information about the impact and effects of domestic violence will be available throughout the restaurant.
If you, or someone you know, needs help because of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking, call Options free Helpline at 800-794-4624 for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Options Domestic & Sexual Violence Services, Inc. is a non-profit agency dedicated to empowering individuals who experience domestic, sexual, interpersonal, or stalking violence through individual support while educating our communities to identify and confront the causes of violence in society. Options provides services to 18 counties in Northwest Kansas. Options voluntary services are always provided free of charge, and with complete confidentiality.