Staff members of The ARK gathered yesterday at the Brown County Courthouse to raise awareness for Domestic Violence Awareness Month by participating in the ‘Purple Thursday’ campaign. They all wore purple to show their support for those who have experienced domestic violence and abuse and to let them know that help is available for them and their families. Maritza Granados, Community Educator & Bilingual Advocate, won 1st place for being the most spirited for the “Purple Thursday” campaign. Katherine McKnight, Overnight Advocate, won 2nd place, and Stephanie Russell, Howard Payne University Intern student, won 3rd place.
Stephanie Russell talked about her time at the Ark, “Since returning back to school to become a social worker and doing my internship at the Ark, I recently came across a reading that stuck with me; We are not all in the same boat, we are not even in the same storm, some of us are in yachts, some are in canoes, and some are drowning. So be kind and help when you can. Part of that help is being aware and helping anyone you see that might need a little helping hand. ”
Community Educator & 1st place winner, Maritza Granados explained some of what the Ark does on a normal day, “Our advocates at the shelter manage cases every day, transport clients, & we have a counselor there for people to talk with that stays very busy with appointments. We are open 24 hours a day and all of our services are confidential. ”
The ARK’s mission is to a provide safe shelter and comprehensive resident and non-resident services through advocacy, referrals, and education to support and empower victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault, one family at a time.
On Saturday October 21, 2023 from 8am – noon the Ark is having a huge garage & baked goods sale. Come out to get some great deals, raise money and help support the survivors of domestic abuse.
