Ina Mae Greene Foundation For My Sisters: Violence against women with disabilitie...

Ina Mae Greene Foundation For My Sisters:
          Violence against women with disabilitie...:           Violence against women with disabilities Research suggests that women with disabilities are more likely to experience domes...

          Violence against women with disabilities

Research suggests that women with disabilities are more likely to experience domestic violence sexual assault, and emotional abuse than women without disabilities. Women with disabilities may also feel more isolated and feel they are unable to report the abuse, or they may be dependent on the abuser for their care. Like many women who are abused, women with disabilities are usually abused by someone they know, such as a partner or family member.

Women with Disabilities Are More Vulnerable to Domestic Violence

Research indicates that women with disabilities are more likely to suffer domestic violence and sexual assault than women without disabilities. And women with disabilities report that abuse lasts longer and is more intense than women without disabilities.

Like other women, women with disabilities usually are abused by someone they know, such as a partner or family member. In addition, women with disabilities face the risk of abuse by healthcare providers or caregivers. Caregivers can withhold medicine and assistive devices, such as wheelchairs or braces. They can also refuse to help with daily needs like bathing, dressing, or eating.

Reasons for Violence Against Women with Disabilities

Violence against women with disabilities happens because of attitudes towards women together with vulnerability from the conditions that result from the disability itself, such as:

·        Being physically less capable of defending themselves

·        Difficulty in reporting maltreatment due to the lack of accessible forms of communication

·        Inaccessibility of information and counseling services due to barriers in the physical environment and due to the lack of accessible forms of communication (this is particularly concerning for women who are blind or visually impaired)

·        Lower self-esteem due to not being seen as a woman but only as a person with a disability or even worse—only as her disability

·        A greater amount of dependence on other people for care

·        Fear of reporting the abuse, as it might result in the breaking of bonds and loss of the care they may require

Domestic Violence Is Never the Fault of the Victim

Domestic and sexual assault, stalking, and neglect are never the fault of the victim. They are not based on stress, drugs, or alcohol. They are due to the active choice of the abuser to use violence or other intimidating tactics to control his victim.

Victims often stay with their abuser for many reasons, including economic, cultural, and fear of losing custody of the children. Perhaps most important, victims fear increased violence or death or if they leave. In fact, the most dangerous time for a victim is when she’s trying to leave. This may be due to the abuser feeling like he is losing control over his victim. For women with disabilities, it can be even worse. If they are being abused by someone they rely on to take care of them, they may feel trapped. 

Women who are blind or visually impaired have additional concerns related to their vision. As one victim noted, "I realized that my vision was being used against me...(later) I learned about my vision and how to use it more efficiently. This restored my confidence." Be sure to read her story, "Domestic Violence Has Many Faces".

The National Domestic Violence Hotline
1.800.799.SAFE (7233)*1.800.787.3224 (TTY)

I met Elizabeth Page, LMSW, founder of Disabled Crime Victims Assistance, Inc.; www.devainc.org. She inspired me to write this post, she was a victim of workplace violence, and is now permanently confined to a wheelchair. She has committed her life to bringing awareness to the plight of women with disabilities who are victimized by sexual assault and domestic violence. Domestic abuse is a crime that passes on no one, anyone, male or female can be a victim of this crime. 

To read more about resources and the work we do to help victims of domestic violence, visit our website, www.inamaegreene.org.

“BECAUSE THE ROAD TO SAFETY SHOULD NOT BE A DEAD-END!”

Other resources for this article: Vision Aware

OCTOBER MARKS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MONTH

Love should never hurt.
And yet, relationship violence is a far too common dynamic for many women (and men) on today’s dating and mating scene. According to NBCNEWS.COM, “Nearly 3 U.S. women are killed every day by current or former romantic partners.”

WHAT EXACTLY IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?

As per the Department of Justice: “We define domestic violence as a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person.”

WHO DOES DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IMPACT?

Domestic Violence affects women (and men) from all different walks of life; from different educational backgrounds, races, age groups, educational and economic leanings.
Domestic Violence does not discriminate.
Though its impact is far-reaching, reportedly, African-American women comprise about 50% of female homicide victims. Not only does Domestic Violence “hurt” its victims, it takes a collective and burdensome toll on friends, family members, employers, church communities, and society at large. It robs us of stolen potential and future contributions.
Because of the serious, horrific nature of this crime, Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the "Day of Unity" held in October 1981 and was conceived by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
The primary goals in the evolving years, has been to educate, empower and eventually eradicate this social ill.

 A LOOK AT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE THROUGH THE EYES OF A COP

Domestic Violence has so many “moving parts”.  From the victims, to the families, to the health care providers, to law enforcement officials. To provide a more comprehensive, well-rounded view of some of the situations and circumstances surrounding this issue, some time ago, we at IMGF interviewed a Chicago cop who has experience in professionally dealing with this area.
You can learn more about protective measures, warning signs, suggestions and other useful Domestic Violence information in her interview here:
http://inamaegreene.blogspot.com/2013/05/a-look-at-domestic-violence-through.html

IN CLOSING…

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

If you or someone you love is caught in the grips of Domestic Violence, know that you are not alone. “Arm” yourself with accurate information, resources and available options, as they relate to your specific situation and location (or those that apply to your loved one).

Here are a few places and organizations (in addition to IMGF) that can help you with an array of needs, and provide guidance whatever your stage or transition.

NCADV.ORG
https://ncadv.org/learn-more/resources
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RESOURCES BY CITY
http://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=31886
BETWEEN FRIENDS
http://betweenfriendschicago.org/gethelpnow_resources.html
Remember that: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with that first step.”
images  PIXABAY.COM

THIS SPRING-- “DECLUTTER” YOUR PERSONAL LIFE

Spring is on the horizon. And with it comes the usual cleaning, purging, dusting, and rearranging to improve our home’s interior and enhance our quality of life.

But, as we beautify our surroundings, it’s important to include our “personal dwelling” as well: our hearts, minds, body and spirit.  Because when we make our “temple” clean, lean and strong, we will experience a higher level of functioning and reach new heights on many other levels.

Allow me to elaborate here…

How many of us need to “toss” raggedy, toxic relationships?
To purge our hearts of bitterness and grudges?
To get our “financial house” in order?
To “dust off” outdated ways of thinking?
Hello?

In the words of Socrates: “ The unexamined life is not worth living.”

With this in mind, here are some areas to examine and address as you “declutter” your personal life this spring.

MIND

Do you lead a disciplined thought life? Are your thoughts positive or negative? The Bible tells us in Phillipians 4:8,” Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”

Is your mind plagued by regrets from the past?  Remember…you can’t change the past, but you can learn the lesson and move forward with greater wisdom and grace.

HEART 

Do you have an extended stay at “the Heartbreak Hotel”? Are you repeating the same destructive habits and poor choices from years past?  Are you allowing yourself to be mentally or physically abused? Still? It’s not too late to break free to live the type of life you deserve and desire in 2017. There are many resources available to help. Check our website for details.
 http://www.inamaegreene.org/


BODY

Studies show that Blacks are affected by obesity disproportionately. Some contributing factors are lack of exercise, poor diets, and unhealthy lifestyles. Choose better. Make your health a priority. Don’t just strive to look pretty and fashionable. Dig deeper.

HERE ARE A FEW SUGGESTIONS:

Purchase a cookbook with healthy recipes and experiment with a new way of eating.
If you don’t like to exercise, consider other alternatives. Dancing, stepping, bowling, can all help to keep you active, boost your metabolism and burn extra calories. Do something…soon.
See your doctor regularly for routine screenings. It’s unwise to wait until you don’t feel well. Prevention is the key.

Are you on board to live better?

If you’d like to make 2017 a year of great progress, peace, and passion, remember that spring cleaning should include all aspects of your life for optimal results.
Now get moving. ☺

LOVE YOURSELF THIS VALENTINE’S DAY…

Many of us, as women, have been raised and socialized to look for our “knight in shining armor” to love us, rescue us, and lead us into “happily-ever-after”…

But, as we mature and grow in wisdom, we learn to separate fact from fiction. 

Or in some cases, fact from friction!

When we conduct a personal analysis of our lives and experiences with the opposite sex, we realize that relationships are far from perfect, and often lack that fairy tale ending we  hope for.

They can be complicated, confusing, combative.

And sometimes, may even be plagued with infidelity, abuse, anger, deception and irreconcilable differences.

All of which can cause us to lose sleep, rob us of our peace, doubt our worth.

Drama that can compromise our self-esteem and sense of safety.

But this Valentine’s Day, don’t lose heart. It’s not too late to learn to live differently, honor yourself, and create the type of future you desire and deserve.

And it begins with you, sweetheart.

If this Valentine’s Day finds you without a man or a plan, don’t despair.

As a popular song states: “I’ve got all my life to live, and I’ve got all my love to give. 

I will survive.”    

Don’t place your life on hold…you’re better than that. 

This Valentine’s Day, this year, you should:

 Pamper yourself.

 Buy your own roses.

 Eat from the good china.

 Go to a movie.

 Wear pretty lingerie, even if there’s no man to model it for.

 Get a massage.

 Start a journal to increase self-awareness, and make more informed decisions.

 Set boundaries. 

 Empower yourself. “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

 Live life on your own terms.

Because the best way to attract a great man who will love, respect, honor and cherish you

… is to lead by example.

Happy Valentine’s Day, beautiful!

HOW TO KEEP MORE RESOLUTIONS IN 2017!

Most folks start off on the right foot. To establish solid ground, and to improve upon the year before, they eagerly create New Year’s resolutions and promise to …

LOSE WEIGHT

SAVE MORE MONEY

WORK LESS

GOVERN STRESS

RELOCATE

WRITE A BOOK

CHANGE JOBS

TAKE BETER CARE OF THEIR HEALTH 

GO TO CHURCH

LEAVE A DYSFUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP

START ANEW…

Sound familiar?

But did you know that statistics show that only 8% of people actually keep their resolutions? Here are some more statistics you’ll also find interesting:
http://www.statisticbrain.com/new-years-resolution-statistics/

This can be a little discouraging.

But don’t give up hope here. You can achieve the things you desire and deserve.

However, in the words of Dr. Phil, “You can’t fix what you don’t acknowledge first.”

Accordingly, here’s why, despite your best intentions, you may “fall off” and become frustrated (and how to fix that).

1. YOUR GOALS ARE NOT WELL THOUGHT OUT
In other words, you need to have a game plan to accompany your goals for greater success. Hello? For example, it’s not enough to want to “lose weight,” how will you make it happen? Join Weight Watchers? Eat less? Go to the gym 3x a week? Give up pizza and pasta?
The more specific, strategic and realistic you are, the greater your odds for success.
2. YOU’RE “TALKING THE TALK, BUT NOT WALKING THE WALK”
Bust a move. Words without action to back it up are futile
3. YOU NEED HELP
And there’s no shame in it. The Bible states: “The wise seek counsel.”  Are you stuck in a rut? Require new skills to abandon an old job?  Seeking to leave an abusive relationship? Struggle with depression? There are an array of resources available to you, don’t suffer in silence or confusion.
You are not alone.
4. YOU’RE ALLOWING FEAR TO GOVERN YOUR ACTIONS
Everybody’s afraid. Of something…
But the key is to not let fears hold us hostage or keep us in destructive patterns. You can find a new love! A new life! Greater peace! More fulfillment! But to move forward, you must release old fears and doubt. Pray for guidance and needed direction.
5. YOU’RE NOT OBSERVING THE “S.M.A.R.T.” PRINCIPLE
In other words, for optimal success, your goals should be:

S   PECIFIC
M  EASURABLE
A  TTAINABLE
R   EALISTIC
T   IME-ORIENTED

In conclusion…

A better life and a better year are within your reach.
Follow these five timely tips as a road map for a smoother journey, as you navigate the path to success!

Happy New Year!

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

“Sometimes Christmas doesn’t make us feel the way that we think it should. A song says, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” but often we feel sad, isolated or just plain stressed out.” -Excerpted from the booklet, “Finding Peace at Christmas”

‘Tis the season to be jolly,” according to the lyrics of a popular holiday tune. 

But, for countless Americans across the country, Xmas time is clouded by depression, isolation, sadness, and even pain.  

Particularly, for victims of domestic violence. Everyday situations and simple things can escalate or spiral out of control.

Unfortunately, the stress of the holiday season, unmet expectations and increased alcohol consumption can serve as triggers for further abuse.

Don’t become another statistic. 

Read and heed the following tips to stay safe and sane during the holiday season.

1. LIMIT YOUR ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION AND YOUR EXPOSURE TO PEOPLE WHO TYPICALLY CAN’T HANDLE THEIR LIQUOR WELL.

 This may seem simple, but it’s too often overlooked. Alcohol is known to lower inhibitions and compromise people’s judgment. “Better safe than sorry.”

2. HAVE YOUR PHONE WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES (CHARGED) OF COURSE.

3. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SAFTEY APPS.

According to the site Cleveland.com, “You have a smart phone, consider downloading a safety app, like Aspire, for women, many of which have been designed to automatically alert your support network if you are in danger.”

4. STRIVE NOT TO ENGAGE IN CONFRONTATIONS OR HEATED ARGUMENTS.

Depending upon the situation, silence can be an effective strategy for peace and safety. 

5. DON’T ISOLATE YOURSELF FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

Not only can they help to keep you in “good spirits,” they can become important allies for protection, support, and well-being.

6. PRAY.

For believers and those in the faith community, prayer offers solace, comfort, and an indestructible shield during times of crisis.

ADDITIONALLY, HERE ARE SOME TIMELY TIPS OFFERED BY
CLEVELAND.COM THAT ARE WORTH CONSIDERING AND IMPLEMENTING:
http://www.cleveland.com/court-justice/index.ssf/2014/12/8_tips_for_domestic_abuse_vict.html

ON A FINAL NOTE…
In this season of “giving,” we at IMGF hope you’ll remember us in your charitable donations throughout the holiday season and in 2017.
Your generosity, (through tax deductible contributions) helps to provide needed resources and programs to those in crisis situations, and saves lives.
We couldn’t do this without you.
Thank you for your support and prayers throughout the year.
From our door to yours, we wish you peace, blessings, and the joy of the season!
We hope you’ll rejoin us in 2017 for new resources, materials and events regarding domestic violence.

“BECAUSE THE ROAD TO SAFETY SHOULD NEVER BE A DEAD END.”

THOUGHTS OF THANKS

---“Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.”

It’s been a tough year and a tough economy for many…

Cost of living increases.

Major retailers, businesses and restaurants closing down forever. 

Police wars. 

 Political upheaval. 

Pandemonium.

All contributing to a climate of doubt, fear, stress and uncertainty;

no matter where on this globe you hang your hat and call “home”.

Add to this the untimely deaths of entertainment legends and celebrities like Prince, Muhammad Ali, Gene Wilder, and Herb Kent (to name a few).

In the midst of the madness, there's STILL so much to be thankful for. 

So many blessings to embrace.

In fact, a recent study conducted by Baylor University, reports that individuals that found more meaning in their lives felt a greater sense of satisfaction, and that having gratitude yields more happiness than "possessing" things.

Consider this during the Thanksgiving holiday season: Even though your bank account may not be “full” no doubt your stomach will be.

Yet countless Americans will be without a turkey dinner, or a table to put their feet under to call home, or the love of family, or good health that allows them to function independently.

Can I get an Amen?

So this year, why not focus less on all the things you don’t have, and focus more on God’s abundant blessings? 

Or devote that same energy to making things better for others. 

One person really can make a difference.

THINGS YOU CAN DO…

 Donate to a Domestic Violence charity. 

 Volunteer at a food pantry or soup kitchen. 

 Start a coat drive in your area.  

 Mentor to the youth in your community that may need guidance.

 Visit the elderly and sick in nursing homes.

 Become active in your church.

       It’s never too late to make a new start. To live in gratitude.

      To enrich others.

IN CLOSING…

Remember, no matter who runs this country, we should always be mindful of 

“Who is the head of our lives.”

“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10

From our door to yours…

 We wish you a blessed, bountiful, beautiful, safe Thanksgiving.

We are “thankful” for your ongoing support and prayers. 

 "BEACUSE THE ROAD TO SAFETY SHOULD NOT BE A DEAD-END!"

The Forgotten Victim-When the victim of relationship violence is a man Part three

Why do we wait until something tragic happens to move on an issue or make changes when we have known all along that there is a problem there? By WE I mean the lawmakers, state and local government, the mayor, city council, police etc.!
Why did 16 people need to die before the state decided to look into the licenses and inter working of the hot air balloon business? Why did five police officers in Dallas need to die because the Dallas police department was so ill equipped, that they were out gunned by one man, before it was determined that the officers need better equipment with which to protect themselves and the public; and that they need a raise in pay because their lives area worth much more than $45,000 dollar a year (rookie salary). WHY?
Why will another young man need to die before the lawmakers and judges can see that a woman can be as deadly as a man when it comes to domestic violence? Just this past Monday in Graham NC a 32-year-old man was shot by his girlfriend, (so yes it does happen). I have been a victims’ advocate for more than a decade, and I know that a women is three times more likely to be the victims in a domestic violence’s cases than a man. Does that mean that we should look the other way and that it is okay for the victim to be male since it doesn’t happen that often?
We have looked the other way from women being murdered and abused my their intimate partner for one hundred years and we are only just starting to pay attention to what is happening to women and children behind the closed doors of a home where there is abuse. But for the male victims, we as a country and a community are not looking at all. BECAUSE we have decided that it is impossible for a man to be the victim of domestic violence. So we ignore the problem (like we once did with women), the cries for help, the lack of support in police and the court systems and sit back comfortable in the belief that the man can fix it on his own.
News flash, HE CANNOT!
Did you know that in the state if Texas where we live, that men have no legal rights to their children if they were never married to the mother and they don’t have a court ordered custody plan in place?  So if he cannot afford a decent lawyer he is screwed!  To rub the salt all the way into his wounds, don’t let her accuse him of any wrongdoing. Innocent until proven guilty does not apply here.
 He will need to prove to the court and CPS that her accusations are false, before he can see his child. The system (justice) is not set up to support a male victim! And no, legal aid will not be a help to him because like most programs for poor people, they are under funded and under staffed and the child will likely be leaving college before the father can spend time with him or her before the legal aid system can get around to his case. Not hating on legal aid just stating the sad facts! Okay maybe a little exaggeration here!
In my next installment I will list what few resources there are and how to protect yourself if you are male victim of domestic violence.

“BECAUSE THE ROAD TO SAFETY SHOULD NOT BE A DEAD END-FOR ANYONE!

BIG MOMMA DIDN'T TELL ME!

New cover, new words, more inspiration than before! The new and updated version will be available to purchase on our website www.inamaegreene.org and on Amazon Memorial Day!

Breaking the Cycle with Help and Healing

 Breaking the Cycle is a written work by IMGF. It is a pocket book of prayers and inspirational quotations with quotes from heartfelt writers like Mya Angelo and Desmond TuTu!

 This little pocket book includes words of wisdom from scholars the likes of Langston Hughes and humanitarians Martin Luther King Jr. and Mother Teresa; as well as a few thoughts of my own. The book is formatted to also act as a journal with space for notes, as well as your own thoughts and prayers.

To receive one of these amazing and popular books please log on to our website www.inamaegreene.org; go to the buy The Store tab and order as many copies as you choose, it is priced so that it can be given as gifts to family, friends, church members and coworkers.

Don't delay, order your copy today!

Heres to your health and healing!

Darlene Greene-Barree
Executive Director
Ina Mae Greene Foundation-For My Sisters

IMGF Proudly Announces Publication of "Big Momma" Slated for Summer 2015

About the Book...

Big Momma Didn't Tell Me This Would Happen is a cautionary tale about life, love and relationships.

Big Momma, being the strong Matriarch of the family, until it came to her husband. Then everything he says goes; whether she agreed with it or not.

 

A legacy that was passed down to her daughters and granddaughters, perpetuating a cycle of "blind obedience," drama, pain, dysfunction, and even death.

This book is a time capsule that spans more than five decades. It chronicles the story of Ella Mae King (Big Momma) and the trials and tribulations of the women in one southern family who never understood what love really was. What to expect in relationships, or how to make healthy relationship choices.

A story about a family legacy of giving in to your man no matter the consequences, that is handed down to the young women, generation after generation-- like fine china and cherished heirlooms.

 

It's a legacy of control... of abuse and death, resulting from a lack of knowledge about relationship violence and how it affects the entire family, not just the victim.

 

Though the story is lived out by one family of beautiful African-American women, it is a story line that is echoed across the country by women of all races and socio-economic backgrounds where domestic violence and toxic relationships serve as a common theme. 

Big Momma Didn't Tell Me ThisWould Happen will make you laugh, sometimes it will make you cry.

 

In the end, it is my hope that ultimately it will make you think-- about your choices, about love, and about relationship safety. Because "what you DON'T know CAN hurt you!"

 

About the Distribution and Availability...

 

This 3rd book, authored by Darlene Greene, (the 1st fictional work), will be available as a limited edition in August. You can order it online through the website.

Look for the National distribution in October, for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 

 

 

Happy Mother's Day to All...

Mothers. Where would any of us be without them?
They give us roots and wings. They were our first teachers.
Most believed in us before we believed in ourselves.
They dried tears and calmed fears.

They are our silent "cheerleaders."
They lift us up in prayer.

Which is why IMGF is proud to salute all mothers, grandmothers and stepmothers for the crucial role they play in the lives of others (officially) on May 10th. But, realistically all year long!

In all you do, take time out for you!

Wishing you a
Happy Mother's Day filled with abundant blessings and fond memories!

The Purple Pinkie Project--Bringing Awareness to Teen Dating Violence

Consider the following statistics.
According to loveisrespect.org:

• Approximately 1.5 million high school students nationwide encounter physical abuse from a dating partner in a single year.
• 72% of 8th and 9th graders are reportedly "dating."
• 70% of college students have been sexually coerced.
• Violent behavior typically rears its ugly head between the ages of 12 and 18.

These statistics underscore the importance of educating and empowering our youth, as it relates to dating, positive self-esteem and awareness, anger management, and healthy relationship boundaries and behaviors.

The "Purple Pinkie" Project was established to address this growing need.
Created by the Whitney Family in 2012, to honor and remember Alexandra Kogut, a college freshman who was reportedly murdered by her boyfriend, and whose favorite color was purple.

Why does the "pinkie finger" have significance?
It is said to symbolize strength and promise.
In a show of solidarity and support, women and men all over, have painted their pinkies purple and posted their photos on Facebook and other social media circles.

With the Purple Pinkie Charitable Foundation's advocacy, efforts and involvement, perhaps we can come one step closer to creating a kinder, gentler generation for the future.

To learn more, or to make a contribution, visit:
http://www.purplepinkie.org/

Black History Month Tribute to the Strength and Beauty of Black Women

Sometimes we forget who we are, where we come from.
Though history books may minimize our collective contributions, and we are recognized during the shortest month of the year, trust me-- there is nothing "small" about people of color.

From humble beginnings, we have made a huge impact on all aspects of society: from arts and entertainment, to fashion, to politics, to sports, to the business arena. We are an undeniable force!
Strong. Innovative. Proud. Determined.

Particularly Black Women.


Which is why it gives the Ina Mae Greene Foundation tremendous pleasure to honor Black History Month.
A celebration of past achievements and future greatness.

We invite you to join us.

LIKE WINE WE RARE (FOR SOUL SISTERS)

 

 

Defiant hair

Undeniable flair

"Attitude" to spare,

Like wine

We rare

 

Full hips

More-than-our-share lips,

Skin that's been

Sun Kissed,

 

Like wine,

We rare

 

Sassy and bold

Breaking the mold,

Our greatness untold,

 

Like wine,

We rare

 

 

(C) 2006 J.B. Banks
Image Credit: Henry L. Jones

NOMORE.ORG JOINS THE FIGHT AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

No more.org is a public awareness campaign and social movement purposed to end domestic violence and sexual assault, through various programs, public service initiatives, and resources. Its roots date back to 2009.

The group, along with local and national organizations, seeks to remove the stigma associated with Domestic Violence and add some much needed conversations surrounding a social issue that has been shrouded in secrecy for far too long.

The campaign has even partnered with celebrities and NFL athletes to assist their cause, and to give greater visibility and a stronger platform to reach more people.

NOMORE.ORG SHARES THE FOLLOWING STATISTICS AND STUDIES:

• 12.7 million people are raped, physically abused or stalked by partners in a 12-month period.
• Abusive unions can affect long-term health. Survivors of intimate partner violence are 70% more likely to experience heart disease.
• According to an Avon Study, 60% of Americans know a victim of either domestic or sexual violence, or both.
• 3 out of 4 parents have not talked about the issue of Domestic Violence with their children.

To learn more, provide a donation, or to get involved, visit NOMORE.ORG
  http://nomore.org/category/news/

...Because silence can be deadly.

Happy Holidays From Ina Mae Greene Foundation!

Happy Holidays, Readers and Friends.
The year seems to have flown by, with all the hustle and bustle.
As the year comes to an end, there's no better time to say thanks for your ongoing support, donations, and good will. We appreciate all you do to help us to continue to carry out our mission, and to make domestic violence a thing of the past.

Next year we look forward to some new and promising things, and hopefully more resources to help those in need.

Please keep us in your thoughts and in your prayers.
If you would like to stay abreast of new projects, changes in services or policies, or referral information, you can receive updates by visiting this blog, or signing up for email notifications through this site.


From our door to yours...
Have a Merry Christmas, filled with peace, abundance and joy!


Warmly,

Darlene

Thoughts of Thanks on Thanksgiving....

2014.
It's been a "challenging" year for many of us individually and collectively.
The Ebola crisis. Political upheaval in the White House. Domestic violence issues being brought to the forefront; affecting women and men of every class, color, and socio-economic backgrounds.
The loss of comic legends like Robin Williams and Joan Rivers.
And "extremes" in everything from the weather to the gas prices at the pump.

To paraphrase Charles Dickens...

"These are the best of times, these are the worst of times."
Still there is much for which we all can be grateful. Daily blessings...our health, friendships, family and more.

Accordingly, we at Ina Mae Greene Foundation would like to wish you continued blessings this holiday season,
and Thanksgiving memories as rich as homemade gravy. :-)

October is National Bullying Prevention Month...

As we close out the month of October with celebrations of Halloween and goblins and scary things, we at IMGF would also like to recognize a cause that has great social significance; one that is "scary"  on many levels for a number of kids today.

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. Bullying can manifest in various forms, on different levels: from verbal abuse, to cyber-bullying, to physical intimidation, to teen dating violence.
It can impact targeted individuals through fear, low self-esteem, and feelings of isolation.
In the worst case scenarios, it has also lead to suicide, particularly in teens.

Because of the gravity of this issue, National Bullying Prevention Month was established in 2006, by PACER'S National Bullying Prevention Center.

The goal of this month is to increase awareness, help others to honor differences, and find ways to prevent bullying for kids of all ages.
Communities, organizations and schools have joined forces to provide programs and activities which include: stomp out bullying week, make a new friend week, and Blue Shirt Day.

For more information and resources check out Stompoutbullying.org. Stomp out bullying.org.

Have a safe and "sweet" Halloween.

Domestic Violence Month Featured Advocate-Allstate Foundation's Purple Purse Project

 

Statistics report that 1 in 4 women will be affected by domestic violence in their lifetime.

One aspect of the "abuse" that continues to victimize women and hold them "hostage" is financial abuse. 
Faced with limited to no funds, many find themselves without the financial resources to move on and start over. For some it's a matter of sheer survival. Financial abuse, in fact, is reported to occur in 98% of domestic violence cases.

Allstate Foundation is working to change that. The "Purple Purse" project provides grants and resources to organizations whose purpose is to work directly with victims to educate and empower them financially.  

Since 2005, they have partnered with leading national and local non-profits to make a positive difference in the fight against domestic violence. Through their efforts, they are making it "fashionable" to talk about domestic violence, in order to remove the stigma, fear, and cycle of silence.

To learn more, or to show support, visit their site at Purplepurse.com:
http://purplepurse.com/the-inside/