Verizon Wireless and PC Richard & Sons Tean Up To Support SCCADV

SCCADV was the recipient of a $5,000 donation through the Verizon Wireless Hopeline program. Hopeline turns unused wireless phones into support for victims of domestic violence. Verizon collects no longer used cell phones, batteries and accessories in any condition from any wireless provider at their locations nationwide. Proceeds are used to provide wireless phones and cash grants to local shelters and non profit organizations that focus on domestic violence, such as SCCADV. Pictured in photo (L - R) Pat Devlin & David Small, Verizon Wireless, Jamie Dorman, SCCADV and Gary & Gregg Richard of PC Richard & Sons

THE BUCK STARTS HERE....to end domestic violence

SCCADV has launched its new fund raising campaign, THE BUCK STARTS HERE to end domestic violence. Domestic violence is a crime that affects each and every member of society. Thousands of victims live in fear everyday and are abused at the hands of their intimate partner. SCCADV has been providing services to victims and their children for 33 years. Now, more than ever we need your help and support! If you are a business owner in Suffolk County, please consider placing a shelter bank in your establishment. If you frequent a local business - hair salon, deli, dry cleaner, nail salon, etc. - please ask them to host a bank for SCCADV. We acknowledge that individuals may not be able to donate a large sum of money so we are asking just for a buck. Every dollar counts! For more information or to learn how you can get a shelter bank for yoru business location, please contact Jamie Dorman at 631.666.7181 ext. 323 or email j.dorman@sccadv.org

Michael A.H. Schoenberg Elected to the Governing Board of SCCADV

Michael A.H. Schoenberg has been elected to the Governing Board of the Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence (SCCADV) for a three year term beginning May 15, 2008. As a Director, Michael will work with the other Board members in planning the Coalition’s events and in overseeing the agency. Michael is an associate in the firm’s commercial litigation department. His practice focuses on a variety of commercial, real estate, contract and business torts litigation involving breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract, real estate contract disputes, tortious interference with contract and misappropriation of trade secrets. Michael is a member of the Nassau County and New York State Bar Associations and the Federal Bar Council. About Farrell Fritz Farrell Fritz is a full service law firm that has earned a strong reputation in the New York business community. Highly respected for its experience in many areas of law, Farrell Fritz handles legal matters in the areas of corporate and banking; environmental law; franchise and distribution; health care; labor and employment; land use, municipal and zoning litigation; real estate; tax; trusts and estates; and creditors’ rights and bankruptcy matters for a variety of corporations, institutions and individuals. For more information, please visit our website at www.farrellfritz.com.

HangPROUD Proudly Presents SCCADV

The website HANGproud, www.hangproud.com, recently and generously put up a banner ad about SCCADV's services on its website. HANGproud reaches out to women and girls to empower them, increase self-esteem and make a difference in the lives of all women. Thank you to Carla Alpert, one of the founders, for designing the ad and for promoting the well-being of all women.

SCCADV Featured On NY Safety Net

SCCADV was featured in a podcast addressing the issue of domestic violence on www.nysafetynet.com, a website that provides information about nonprofit and service organizations, professionals, and other resources for the people of New York. It is a site to find out more about housing, healthcare, personal rights, financial and legal resources within greater New York City. The website is a service offered by Schwartzapfel Truhowsky Marcus Sachs P.C.. We appreciate their commitment to community safety.

Teen Relationships 101: Dating Violence Rises, SCCADV Addresses Teen Violence at High Tea

The Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence held its Fourth Annual High Tea on June 19, 2008 at the Thatched Cottage in Centerport. Beyond the tea and scones, SCCADV uses this event to highlight some of the stereotypes that surround domestic violence, particularly within social, ethnic or religious groups. This year, the event focused on teen dating violence. At the event, SCCADV honored Louise Agnes, an area architect and member of the Northport Rotary Club. Ms. Agnes is the liaison to SCCADV, which is supported by the club. The Northport Rotary was the event sponsor and has been incredibly generous to SCCADV donating $5,000 last year! SCCADV also honored the Alpha Theta Rho Sorority at St. Joseph’s College, which has raised over $5,700 for SCCADV. Danielle Campbell of News 12 moderated the panel discussion . Panelists discussed topics including: their own stories of survival, the legal aspects, prevention methods, what parents or friends can do and what is being done in schools today. Dating violence is a reality for many teens and has risen 40% since 1999, according to the area Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. A recent study commissioned by Liz Claiborne Inc., showed that significant numbers of teens (ages 15-18) are experiencing emotional and mental abuse as well as violence when dating; it’s more prevalent amongst teens who’ve had sex by 14 (loveisrespect.org). The study found that teenagers or “tweens”, who are as young as 11 or 12, report that friends are in verbally abusive relationships and one-in-ten say their friends have had sex. “While the teen years may be a time of moods changing from moment-to-moment or day-to-day, pay attention, be aware and trust your instincts as a parent,” said panelist and SCCADV Director of Counseling and Education, Alice Agostini. “Most of all, maintaining non-judgmental communication with your teen may save their lives.” It is imperative that teens acknowledge the issue amongst their peers. The more they mock or disregard abusive behaviors, the more isolated the victim feels. The survivor who shared her story at the event said that even with her parents’ support, her friends made her feel alone. Education and awareness are key steps in working to end violence. Recently, the National Association of Attorneys General passed a resolution urging states to establish educational programs on teen dating violence and abuse. SCCADV provides educational workshops to children and teens on the issues. SCCADV’s goal for education is to see all educational facilities incorporating dating violence education into the curriculum and training staff and faculty about the problem. Governor David A. Paterson said he would sign into law an expansion of the current domestic violence law, which broadens the definition of intimate partner. Currently, the only recourse for teenagers is to pursue the issue in criminal court, which deters them as they are worried about getting classmates in trouble or arrested. The victim who spoke said she was very concerned about getting her abuser in trouble. “I didn’t want him to go to jail,” she said.

State Bank of LI Gives SCCADV the Good "Word"

The Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence (SCCADV) is pleased to announce that it’s received a grant from the State Bank of Long Island to purchase computers for graduates of its Vocational Advocacy Project’s (VAP) computer classes. VAP is one of the most progressive services offered by SCCADV. It’s primary purpose is to assist victims of domestic violence in their efforts to obtain economic independence. The comprehensive employment service includes skills assessment, resume writing, interview techniques, computer training, job placement, and weekly life skills workshops. The success of the program is measured by job placement, salary and benefit levels and job retention. There is regular and ongoing contact with clients. Caring support continues by helping clients seek promotions, budgeting and more. “Victims of domestic violence come to SCCADV feeling as if they can’t change their situation because they are financially dependent upon the abuser. It’s heartwarming to see their change in attitude and feelings of self worth after receiving services through this project,” says Jo Anne Sanders, Executive Director. “We are very thankful to State Bank for giving our clients the opportunity to have a computer in their home. This will give them the tools they need to apply for employment, aiding them in achieving economic independence.” State Bank of Long Island is the largest independent commercial bank headquartered on Long Island. In addition to its sixteen branch locations throughout Nassau, Suffolk and Queens Counties, the Bank maintains a lending facility in Jericho. State Bank has built a reputation for providing high-quality personal service to meet the needs of commercial, small business, municipal and consumer markets throughout Long Island and Queens. The Company maintains a web site at www.statebankofli.com with corporate, investor and branch banking information.

SENATOR JOHNSON OFFERS SUPPORT FOR VICTIMS IN CRISIS

New York State Senator Owen Johnson of the 4th District lent his support to victims of domestic violence, procuring a $20,000 legislative member item for the Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence (SCCADV)’s Legal Services program. The only domestic violence services provider to offer a legal services program, SCCADV is extremely grateful for the Senator’s dedication and support of this program. “The Senator’s support helps make it possible for us to provide life-saving services,” said Jo Anne Mitidieri Sanders, Executive Director. “His support of this issue allows us to extend help to victims who might otherwise have no one else to turn to for support.” The cost of legal services for child custody, visitation and support orders can be very expensive, and for victims left with little or nothing, this service can be unattainable. Victims often feel they have no options because they are unable to afford an attorney and they often fear losing their children. In order to help victims achieve their goal of obtaining safety for them and their children, SCCADV established a legal service to handle custody, visitation and child support in Family Court. SCCADV is the only domestic violence agency to offer the services of a Staff Attorney.

LEGISLATOR ALDEN LENDS SUPPORT FOR LEGAL SERVICES

Suffolk County Legislator Cameron Alden lent his support to victims of domestic violence by procuring a $3,000 community initiative grant for the Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence (SCCADV)’s Legal Services program. When victims decide to leave their abusers, they are ultimately taking back the power over their lives. Abusers frequently use threats or acts of violence to regain control of the relationship. The obstacles victims encounter make it increasingly harder for them to leave. The cost of legal services for child custody, visitation and support orders can be very expensive, and for victims left with little or nothing, this service seems unattainable. Victims often feel they have no options because they are unable to afford an attorney and they often fear losing their children. In order to help victims achieve their goal of obtaining safety for them and their children, SCCADV established a legal service to handle custody, visitation and child support in Family Court. SCCADV is the only domestic violence agency to offer the services of a Staff Attorney.

ASSEMBLYWOMAN EDDINGTON ENSURES FUNDING TO HELP PREVENT THE CYCLE OF VIOLENCE

With increasing violence occurring in teen dating relationships, education becomes a key component in the prevention of this epidemic. The Youth Education program at the Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence (SCCADV)’s has been successful in offering teens the tools to understand dating violence and knowledge to help themselves, family and friends. Assemblywoman Patricia Eddington has shown her support for programs to end violence among teens, securing for SCCADV a $5,000 legislative grant Many teens enter into relationships and do not recognize or they ignore the warning signs of an unhealthy relationship. With new technology including text messaging and instant messaging, it becomes easier for an abuser to continually harass the victim. Too often, teens are hesitant to tell their parents or another adult about the circumstances of their dating relationship. Addressing these issues in the classroom environment is paramount to preventing teen dating violence and teaching teens how to get help. SCCADV’s Youth Educator provides educational presentations and workshops to students in grades K-12.

TOWN OF ISLIP GOES PURPLE

On Thursday, October 4th, the Town of Islip participated in SCCADV’s awareness campaign, the Power of Purple. Purple is the awareness color for domestic violence. Town of Islip employees wore purple to work and bought a $5 wristband to show their support for SCCADV. In the picture they are sporting their wristbands. If you would like to purchase a purple wristband to show your support, please contact Karin Romans at k.a.romans@sccadv.org or at 631-666-7181.

Verizon Grant to Increase Public Awareness

SCCADV is very pleased to announce that with the support of Verizon it will begin a public awareness campaign aimed at providing information on abuse to the public. SCCADV received a grant in the amount of $5,200. Aimed at disseminating materials on the overall issue of domestic violence and the services available locally, the campaign will develop outreach materials that are culturally and linguistically appropriate. Efforts will be focused in the Hispanic and Muslim communities and their local media, as well as to the mainstream media. The aim of the campaign is in line with SCCADV’s mission to work towards the prevention of domestic violence.

Sen. Trunzo Supports SCCADV

Senator Caesar Trunzo gave the Suffolk County Coalition Against Domestic Violence (SCCADV) a helping hand by securing a $20,000 to support service for victims of domestic violence. The $10,000 will go to support SCCADV’s Vocational Advocacy Project (VAP). The primary purpose of this service is to assist victims of domestic violence in their efforts to obtain economic independence. Victims often feel they can never leave their abuser because of their financial dependency and many face barriers in seeking employment due to lack of work skills or previous experience. VAP provides clients with a comprehensive employment program including: skills assessment, resume building, interview techniques, computer training and job placement. The other $10,000 will go to support legal service for victims of domestic violence. SCCADV provides assistance in Family Court for child custody, visitation and support orders. SCCADV is the only domestic violence agency offering the services of a Staff Attorney.

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