Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Everyone knows someone

The YWCA of the Sauk Valley, a United Way agency of both Lee and Whiteside counties, is a leading local nonprofit dedicated to serving survivors of domestic violence.

The YWCA of the Sauk Valley announced that it entered into a partnership with the national #Every1KnowsSome1 campaign in observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This collaborative effort aims to shed light on the pervasive issue of domestic violence and empower people to come together as communities to address this epidemic.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month, held annually in October, allows communities nationwide to join forces to raise awareness about the far-reaching influence of domestic violence. The #Every1KnowsSome1 campaign focuses on the theme that everyone knows someone affected by domestic violence, whether they realize it or not.

One in 3 women, 1 in 4 men and almost half of the LGBTQ+ community will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. High rates of domestic violence are not private, individual problems – they require community solutions. By acknowledging this reality, we can collectively work toward ending domestic violence and creating safe, healthy communities for everyone.

Through events and activities throughout the month of October, the YWCA of the Sauk Valley aims to unite the community, encourage open conversations and create a supportive environment where survivors can find hope and healing. Visit the group’s Facebook page, “YWCA of the Sauk Valley,” for more information.

Brayden Everly is assistant director of crisis services at the YWCA of the Sauk Valley.