The following column was submitted by Paula Roller, Executive Director of Turning Point
Our hearts go out to the family of Catharine “Kay” Stout who recently passed away. Kay was an integral part in founding of Concerned Citizens Against Violence Against Women, Inc., the committee that launched Turning Point. Marion and its surrounding counties are in debt to her for bringing the cause to light. Kay received the Susan B. Anthony Award for her vision and also the National Organization of Women (NOW) Woman of the Year Award for her work in establishing our local shelter.
We at Turning Point appreciate her tireless efforts in the fight against violence against women and hope we make her proud in continuing to work for ending violence that plagues so many homes in America.
We unfortunately see that the fight is long and hard. The recent headlines have been that of the murder of Amy Aldrich who was a victim of domestic violence. This loss has deeply affected my staff and the community; it’s difficult to read the testimony of her family members and friends describe what happened that day. There are reports of domestic violence in our area daily and they have the potential for lethal consequences. For fiscal year 2012, we served 974 men, women, and children in our six county service area and those are the brave ones who chose to seek help. Amy’s death should be indicative that we have a large problem on our hands.
Despite the efforts of Kay Stout and others , our Congress has allowed the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) to expire and appears to set the example that violence against women is not an important agenda for the American people. It is our hope that 2013 brings them together and reinstates VAWA for the safety and health of our nation.
Since our inception, we have always put client needs first and we still abide by that same motto. We are with clients in court, assisting them with civil protection orders. We are in the local schools, teaching children about healthy dating relationships. We are always on the other end of the phone, day or night.
Turning Point is a non-profit agency. Funding comes for a variety of sources including the United Way and the Delaware/Morrow Mental Health and Recovery Services Board. Turning Point offers a 24-hour hotline for victims of domestic violence. If you or someone you know needs help or if you would like more information, please call (800) 232-6505 or (740) 382-8988. Turning Point can also be found online at www.turningpoint6.org.
Paula Roller
Executive Director
Turning Point
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