While much has been done, there is more work ahead to stop domestic violence

In the minds of many, October signals the start of Autumn; as the leaves begin to change, we find ourselves reflecting on the seasons that have quickly come to pass. Here at Stepping Stones, October is a month of great importance. This month is spent reflecting on the opportunities we’ve had to work with survivors and our wonderful community partners, as well as the work that is yet to be done.

As we kick off our Domestic Violence Awareness campaign, it’s important to stay mindful of the fact that many men, women and children are living under circumstances year round that force them to be aware of the harsh realities of domestic violence. But domestic violence is not just experienced on an individual level, it is a worldwide, nationwide and community wide problem. Yes, even right here in little Taylor County. Every time you go out in public, you’re crossing paths with individuals who have been or are currently being harmed by a loved one. This is evidenced in the numbers, as 36.3% of women and 32.1% of men in the state of Wisconsin fall victim to violence that’s perpetrated by a family member or significant other within their lifetime.

Despite the prevalence of domestic violence, it’s not a topic most people bring up in their everyday conversations. However, the problem needs to be addressed if it’s ever going to be understood and ideally, someday, eliminated. You, too, have a part to play in preventing domestic violence within our community. By educating ourselves on the various forms of domestic violence and the signs that a person we know may be perpetrating/ falling victim to violence in their home, you’re taking steps to create a safe space where a survivor may feel comfortable coming to you for some desperately needed support. The most powerful thing you can do is listen. Nobody expects you to have all the answers.

When you or someone you know is ready to receive support for a situation that’s hurting them, Stepping Stones staff is prepared to address your needs with love and support, just as we have been for the last 44 years. As a non-profit organization, we offer a variety of free services and information on many great resources. Legal and medical advocacy, peer counseling, emergency shelter and a 24/7 crisis line merely skim the surface of the services available to the domestic violence survivors of Taylor County. We’re here to help and never to judge, so please do not hesitate to reach out.

Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. -4 p.m. Stepping Stones Office Line: 715-7483795 Stepping Stones Crisis Line: 715-7485140 We understand some survivors may be under circumstances where their freedom is limited and their wellbeing is greatly endangered; with this in mind, office hour walk-ins are always welcome.