10/4/2007 9:34:00 AM County observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month Businesses in Highland County displaying ladders, ribbons this week
Shown is a ladder on the Highland County Courthouse lawn observing
national Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
By KATIE WRIGHT Staff Writer
Brightly decorated step ladders entwined with purple ribbon will be displayed at businesses and in shop windows throughout Highland County this week, as the county observes national Domestic Violence Awareness Month and "takes a step" toward ending domestic violence.
The Highland County Domestic Violence Task Force (DVTF) , which is championing the cause, has dropped the ladders off at local businesses in order to give them an opportunity to show support for victims of violence, according to task force family advocate Dara Gullette.
"So far, we have 48 businesses in Highland County who have agreed to display ladders," she said.
"Next Tuesday, we will hold a contest and award the business with the best display."
The ladder display contest is the first of several events the task force will be holding in order to promote awareness about the issue, including the agency's annual awareness luncheon on Oct. 18, which will feature the stories of several local victims of domestic violence.
Deborah Sharp, who has appeared on Oprah and "20/20" after surviving kidnapping, assault and rape, will take the stage at the luncheon alongside Warren County resident Diane Taylor, who moved on with her life after being shot and repeatedly stabbed by her former partner.
Gullette said that these women will be sharing their stories for the same reason the task force is working to spread awareness.
"What is most important is that the victims know that we exist," she said. "Much of the community currently is not aware that our agency is here to assist people living in these dangerous conditions. Victims need to know that we're available and that there are options."
The task force, a non-profit organization, offers material aid, shelter and supplies for victims of domestic violence, as well as several classes including anger management, youth anger management, intervention, women's support groups and parenting classes.
"It's really important that the community get involved, whether by donating to our organization, or by contacting law enforcement when they suspect a case of domestic violence," Gullette said. "Whether it happens at home, at school, or in the workplace, domestic violence is everybody's business. We're glad to see the community getting involved."
