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Voices Newsletter Summer 2024

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Dear Voices Against Violence Community,My name is Abigail Hill and I am here to tell my story, not just as a survivor of intimate partner violence, but asa testament to the power of support and resilience.For 28 years, I've been a part of the Plymouth community. Perhaps you've crossed paths with me before—Iattended Plymouth Elementary School, graduated from Plymouth Regional High School in 2014, and haveworked at Six Burner Bistro on Main Street for nearly a decade. My roots run deep here.Along with Voices Against Violence, I would like to acknowledge the invaluable role played by the PlymouthPolice Department and the Plymouth District Court in supporting survivors every day. And to my immediatesupport system—my family and my partner Brendan—thank you for standing by me and showing me that I amworthy of respect, safety, and love."Tell your story”. It seems simple enough, doesn’t it? Well, vulnerability is hard.THE VOICETHE VOICETHE POWER OF RESILENCE 2023 taught me more lessons that I ever thought one year could. On December 10th, 2022, I became a victim of intimate partner domestic violence. In amoment of drunken rage, my partner of three years and husband of one struck me witha metal frying pan. I fled, barefoot and desperate, down familiar streets seeking help.I found that help in the Plymouth Police Department, who directed me to VoicesAgainst Violence. Despite my initial reluctance, I reached out, and they welcomed mewith open arms. They provided me with support, guidance, and access to resourcesthat I desperately needed to rebuild my life.Voices Against Violence helped me navigate the complexities of the Victim'sCompensation Program, supported me in accessing mental health counseling, andempowered me to reclaim my strength and independence. I can truely say I would notbe where I am today if I had not called Voices that afternoon.On April 14th, I took a bold step forward and I ran my first half marathon. I dedicatedmy race to Voices Against Violence. By sharing my story and shedding light ondomestic violence, I've raised over $4,000 to support their vital work. To everyone whohas supported me on this journey, thank you. Your generosity and compassion havemade all the difference.The people at Voices Against Violence are truly heroes of this community.Thank you for providing me the support I needed to return to a normal life. And thankyou for continuing to support survivors, just like me, ever single day.With gratitude,Abigail Hill

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On April 18th, Voices Against Violence initiated their inaugural FacebookLive Panel Discussion, delving into the profound impact of sexual assault onsurvivors and our community at large. The panel, comprising esteemedindividuals including Tina Mulleavey, Executive Director; Tina Schumacher,Trauma Informed Training Specialist; Bree Gerrior, from the HoldernessPolice Department; and Anna Frecker, Forensic Nurse at Speare MemorialHospital, convened to share insights, resources, and strategies to addressthis pressing issue. Visit our Facebook page to watch this informativevideo.Are You Ready to Make A Difference?Scan the QR code to donate or use the enclosed envelope to contribute to breaking thecycle of violence in your community. Your support is invaluable in providing resources andassistance to those affected by domestic and sexual violence. Together, we can create asafer and more compassionate society. Thank you for joining us in this important mission. Voices Against Violence and the Bristol Event Committee arethrilled to announce our return to action on July 25th at KelleyPark in Bristol, NH at 6:30PM! We're gearing up for anunforgettable evening with 8 pairs of dancers poised to light upthe dance floor. What makes this event even more special is thateach pair has taken on the challenge of fundraising, with everydollar raised serving as a vote for their performance. Withtrophies up for grabs and the prestigious title of the 2024 DancingUnder the Stars winner on the line, the excitement is palpable.Join us for a night of dazzling performances and meaningfulsupport for a great cause!To cast your vote and support your favorite dance pair, simplyvisit our website and click on the Events tab. There, you'll findeach dance pair listed, ready for your vote. Every contributioncounts towards both the success of our event and our ongoingmission to end violence in our community. Thank you for yoursupport and participation!INTERESTED IN EDUCATING YOUR TEAM? CONTACT US AT 603-536-5999. DANCING UNDER THE STARSAPRIL- SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARNESS During Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), observed every April,the focus intensifies on raising public consciousness about sexual violenceand equipping communities with the knowledge to prevent it. Thiscomprehensive month-long campaign endeavors to extend support tosurvivors, foster a culture of consent, and confront the harmful attitudesand behaviors that perpetuate sexual assault.

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2024 ANNUAL BALL- FAIRY TALES AND FANTASIES On March 29th, Voices Against Violence held our highlyanticipated annual ball, an enchanting evening filled withfairy tales and fantasies. It was a magical event where thecommunity united to show their generaous support for ourorganization's mission.This year's ball was particularly heartfelt as Tina, ourdedicated Executive Director, shed light on the harrowingexperiences children endure when faced with physical orsexual assault. Her heartfelt speech underscored theimportance of our collective efforts in providing vital supportand resources to those affected by such traumas.Each year, we recognize outstanding community members with the Beverly S.Seavey Community Service Award for their continued dedication to victim safety.This year, we are proud to honor Anna Frecker, a true leader whose compassionand commitment have made a profound impact on countless sexual assaultsurvivors.Anna is more than just a forensic nurse; she is a beacon of hope in times of despair.With unparalleled dedication, she guides survivors through the difficult process ofsexual assault exams with meticulous care and respect for their autonomy. Annaensures survivors are informed about their options for medical care, evidencecollection, and reporting, empowering them to make decisions about their healthand well-being.Her tireless advocacy for survivors and relentless pursuit of justice make her a truechampion in our community. We are deeply grateful for Anna's invaluablecontributions and honored to present her with this well-deserved award.WHO WE SERVEVoices Confidential and Free Shelterprovided 525 bed nights to those inneed of safe temporary housing. Voices provided education to 2,561members our communities throughmore than 61 programs on topics suchas bullying prevention, healthyrelationships, and teen violence. Ouraudience included law enforcement,healthcare professionals, court staff,and university communities. SERVICES PROVIDED:Female Survivors: 299 (77%)Male Survivors: 51 (13%)Other/Unknown: 35 (9%)Trans /Non-Binary Survivors: 5 (1%)Total Survivors Supported: 390 through 5,948 contacts.TAKING ACTIONAll data from July - December 2023

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PO Box 53Plymouth NH 03264BOARD OF DIRECTORSRichard Gowen, PresidentCarly Hunt, SecretaryDon Paula, TreasurerMarcie Gowen-NobleyErica LeBrunBarbara McNeilSamantha MedeirosKristine SternerPaul WilsonLEADERSHIPTina Mulleavey , Executive DirectorPRSRT.STD.U.S. POSTAGEPAIDPLYMOUTH, NH 03264 PERMIT NO. 12It is our mission to break the cycle of violence by providing comprehensive services for all victimsand survivors and by creating social change through education and action.24-HOUR CRISIS LINE: 1-877-221-6176OUR OFFICE: 603-536-5999M-F; 8 AM – 4 PM