By Kimberly Paulk, SHARECharlotte.com, a free, easy and local website that makes it easy to learn about and engage with our local nonprofits.
Many people turn to Safe Alliance at a time that they would describe as the worst in their lives. As one of the primary local service providers for victims of domestic and sexual violence, Safe Alliance’s Shelter Hotline received more than 11,000 calls last year. Victim Assistance Team members accompanied clients to court more than 4,000 times in Charlotte-Mecklenburg alone. Over 1,000 adults and children were served at their domestic violence shelter.
While the numbers are daunting, the work done through the Safe Alliance programs is inspiring.
Through crisis hotlines, shelters, victim advocacy programs, counseling, support groups and more they provide help for people – including children – in crisis. Their goal is to provide those they serve with the resources, tools and knowledge they need to blossom – like the lotus flower you see as their logo. (Incidentally, the petals of the flower are made up of the national awareness colors for domestic violence (purple), sexual assault (teal), child abuse (blue) and mental health (green).
There are many ways to get involved in this important work. You can start by checking out the opportunities below, then visit SHARE Charlotte for more. Mark your calendar for the annual “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” event coming up on 8/22 – where guys literally walk a mile in heels, all to raise awareness of gender violence.
Court Advocacy Program – Accompany survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault to court in the uptown Charlotte area. Ages 21 and up.
Domestic Violence Shelter Volunteers – Provide childcare, kitchen help or front office support at the shelter. Background check required.
Wish List – Shop Safe Alliance’s Wish List, where you’ll find they need everything from towels and sheets to laundry detergent.
