Donations are down

The amount of our donations are currently down. We are $7,000 behind where we normally are. And we have already eliminated some staff through attrition.

The upcoming 2009 will see some drastic changes, as funding cuts are projected next year in multiple areas. Stay tuned for details. We will keep you updated.

Training at the Sheriff's Office

We recently finished conducting training sessions at the Hancock County Sheriff's Office. The purpose of the training was to educate and remind the deputies about Domestic Violence, Rape and the services that we offer at Open Arms.

We held two training sessions that lasted four hours each. Everyone at the Sheriff's Office was very receptive and kind to the teaching, activities and games! They even gave us a cash donation! We are very grateful. Thanks for your time and support!!

Busy in October

October has been such a busy month in the Shelter program! We've been more full this month than in times past. Summer is usually the busiest time of the year, so this is a little unusual.

In fact, the number of Civil Protection Orders has nearly doubled. Beginning this year through October, we have helped 215 individuals with Civil Protection Orders. Compared to 112 Civil Protection Orders last year through this time, this is a huge increase. Our staff is hard at work and doing well despite these changes from the previous years!

Thank you, Robin!

Robin Givens, actress, author and ex-wife of Mike Tyson, was here! The time leading up to our Annual Meeting went by quickly in anticipation for her arrival, and the time she was here flew by even faster. She was wonderful.

Robin had quite a busy day leading up to our Annual Meeting. She toured our shelter and met with some of our clients and staff for lunch. Listening to her recount her experiences with domestic violence was quite powerful. Domestic Violence is an issue that can affect anyone - from Hollywood to Hancock County - and speaking out about it is critical.

Not only did Robin give a moving speech at our Annual Meeting, but she also decided to donate her shoes to us! It was great. Our theme for the evening was "Walk a Mile in Her Shoes," (which also applies to a fantastic event planned for this spring), and Robin took off her high-heeled shoes and handed them over.

Thank you, Robin! Your work speaking about Domestic Violence is inspiring many.