Gateway fundraiser set for April 18

GAINESVILLE - Domestic violence affects one out of every four women at some point during her life. In 2013 Gateway Domestic Violence Center in Gainesville provided in-person services to 1,008 different people through its emergency shelter program, transitional housing program and support programs.<br /> <br /> &#8203;"Gateway Domestic Violence Center fulfills an unfortunate need in our community," says Lynn Carter, 2014 Gateway board president. "No woman, child or family should have to endure what many of the families receiving services from Gateway have endured. I am proud of the work that Gateway does to ensure safety and empower a different future for so many families in our community."<br /> <br /> &#8203;Although Gateway's location and shelter are hidden (for security purposes), there are many ways the community can help. One of which is the annual Gateway to Hope fundraiser, on Friday, April 18, at the Chattahoochee Country Club. For $75 a person, attendees will enjoy a night of food, friends and fun, all benefiting this life-altering organization.<br /> <br /> &#8203;"This year, we are focused on drawing the line against domestic violence in our community," says Jessica Butler, executive director at Gateway. "Each and every person in our community plays a vital role in helping break the cycle of abuse. As bystanders, there are many ways one can intervene to safely break this cycle, but one easy way is by attending our annual fundraiser on April 18. You see,silence can be one of the most damaging things in an abusive relationship. That it is why it is so important that we, as a community, raise our voices together to break the silence that so often perpetuates abuse."<br /> <br /> &#8203;Gateway believes strongly in the power of an educated community which is why in 2013, they made 259 presentations to more than 5,714 students in third grade, fifth grade and local middle schools, as well as 61 community groups with 3,572 individuals in attendance.<br /> <br /> &#8203;"Domestic violence not only impacts the victim, but the entire family," continues Butler. "We know that roughly one in nine, or approximately 8.3 million children,are exposed to physical or psychological abuse between adults each year. We also know that witnessing these instances of abuse can shape the life of a child and continue the belief that domestic violence is acceptable behavior."<br /> <br /> &#8203;Because of the effect abuse can have on the entire family, Gateway dedicates many resources to its childrens' programs each year. In fact, last year they served 121 children and 39 teenagers in support groups.<br /> <br /> "We would love a day when our services are no longer needed," adds Carter. "But until then, we are going to continue to do our part to help secure the safety of women and children in our community. Whether through crisis intervention, comprehensive support services or community collaboration, it's our mission is to help create an environment for safe, healthy, self-sufficient growth and violence prevention. We invite you to join us, in drawing the line against domestic violence in our community, by attending our annual fundraiser. Your support will allow Gateway to continue to support women and families in our community."<br /> <br /> For more information about Gateway, the Gateway to Hope event or to learn more by viewing the annual report, visit gatewaydvcenter.org or call 770-536-5860. <br />

http://accesswdun.com/article/2014/4/273416