Program Spotlight: Community Education
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Whether it’s the end of summer travels, back to school, or simply the time you have been waiting for PSL to come back (you know who you are), we all see a lot of changes this time of year. August-October is an incredibly busy time for everyone at the NWAWS. Not only did we get our youngest residents ready to school with the help of so many of you, but we are also gearing up for a busy season of being out in the community.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is right around the corner and you can find us at different community fairs this fall or speaking with groups as we collectively raise awareness of NWAWS services and share about the incredible stories of life-change from clients. We would love to see you around and here are some great ways to engage:
- Follow us on social media for our Silent Witness Project launching in October to honor those in Arkansas killed as a result of domestic abuse. Silhouettes will also be around town.
- Look for us at public gatherings like the Banco Sí Block Party, NWACC fairs, NWA Emergency Preparedness Fair, and Bentonville First Friday.
- Check our Facebook Events tab for other events where you can find us.
Did you know we speak to students and community groups about healthy relationships and domestic abuse? Reach out to Amber at alacewell@nwaws.org or by calling 479-246-0353 ext. 102 to arrange for a speaking opportunity or to have us at your community event. We would love to partner with you!
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Coming Up: September is National Suicide Prevention Month
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Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death nationwide and the 2nd and 3rd leading cause of death for children ages 10-14 and 15-24 respectively (NAMI). Going into September, make sure you know the suicide warning signs. Things like wishing to die, expressing not having a will to live, feeling hopeless or trapped, reckless behavior or withdrawal and isolation from others can all be warning signs someone may be at risk for suicide.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is inviting everyone to #BeThe1To prevent suicide by following five easy steps. Helping starts with simply 1) asking if someone showing warning signs is thinking about suicide, 2) being there to listen, 3) keeping them safe, 4) helping them stay connected, and 5) following-up with them to make sure their needs are being met. Read more ››
This summer, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline officially became the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you or someone you know is experiencing crisis, dial or text 988 to get help anywhere in the US. If you are looking for help or resources locally in NW Arkansas, we’d encourage you to contact the Arkansas Crisis Center directly at 888-274-7472.
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Recently, one of our clients shared that a few weeks into their stay, they felt “360° differently” than when they first arrived in shelter. They continued:
“I feel safe. I feel empowered. I feel like somebody actually cares about me & it has made a world of difference to me emotionally, spiritually, & physically.”
-NWAWS Client
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New on the Blog: Why You Matter
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Check out our blog for some reflections from Triniti, our Tyson Summer Community Intern (a program of United Way NWA):
The people we serve in our shelters are fleeing for their lives. Each day is a fight to regain their life and freedom to be in charge of all areas of their personhood. This has pushed me to consider why I want to work for NWAWS.
I am the Development and Thrift Store intern this summer. Thrift store? You may be asking, “Why do you work at a thrift store?” and honestly, I asked myself that, too. The NWAWS Thrift Store provides one of the most consistent and vital sources of revenue that helps the shelter to serve their clients. While at first glance, it may look like working retail (and I do get some experience with that), it is about the “why” we sift through bins of clothing, price them fairly, organize, hang them up, stand on our feet all day, smile when customers give us a hard time, and lift heavy boxes filled with donations. It will help us to better serve the men, women, and children who aren’t safe.
Being involved, no matter how small it may seem, serves a larger purpose whenever we are fully committed to the mission. I’ve decided to work for NWAWS because I am fully committed to the mission of the shelter and will do whatever it takes to make sure people are cared for.
Read more ››
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Get Your Fresh StART Tickets Today!
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Join celebrity host Dan Skoff, and honorary chairpersons Jason Fremstad & Seth Malley for a night of charity gaming, great food, drinks, music, and FUN at Fresh StART 2022 presented by Mars! The event will be held on Saturday, October 22nd at the DoubleTree in Bentonville and you will not want to miss.
Here’s some of what you can expect:
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Delicious eats and, of course, a purple signature drink
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Low-pressure gaming all night long
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A wine and bourbon pull with some special surprises
- Auction items including art from local artists, trips, activities, and more
- Drawings for some BIG prizes
- And so much more!
You do not want to miss out, so get your VIP and General Admission tickets here ››
Can’t make it? You can still test your luck by purchasing an exclusive Golden Raffle Ticket for a trip of your choice here ››
We still have some sponsorship opportunities available. Email Stacy at stacy@nwaws.org for more information.
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If you haven’t come to the Thrift Store lately, you should make time to come sometime soon! We are makin’ it easy to save money, find treasures, and make a big difference in the lives of survivors!
We have had some floor changes, inventory changes, and in September we will be changing up our sales, discounts, and promotions beginning on September 19:
- Our senior, veteran, and first responder customers will now receive a 10% discount on every purchase they make, no matter the day of the week.
- Every Monday will still be the $1 clothing sale for retired tag colors.
- We will have rotating sales each day by department – watch our social media and store signage for more details!
- We will be retiring the reusable bag discount as of Sept 17.
Watch our Facebook and Instagram pages for updates and come shop for a cause!
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Are you an artist looking to increase your exposure?
Do you work for a business that has products people love?
Does putting together gift bags bring you joy?
We would love it if you would consider donating your artwork, crafts, baskets, and other lovely items to support the Silent Auction at Fresh StART. Artists wishing to donate all or part of the sale of their work may complete our artist submission form here.
If you are wishing to donate a basket, gift cards, or other products to support the silent auction, please email Amber.
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You have helped make a difference in your community! Here is how your support has impacted the world around you:
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Crisis calls to the NWAWS hotline:
1368
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People receiving safe shelter:
222
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Educational presentations and events:
53
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