Laurel House Blog

Photos from Marian's Attic Fashion Show

2010-03-22T14:39:00.002-04:00

We love all the photos that folks have been sending us of last week's Marian's Attic Fashion Show. (Missed it? We've uploaded a bunch of them to our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/laurelhouse or you can view them right here:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=156110&id=638404832&l=1d23308f70

And if you like what you see fashion-wise, stop by Marian's Attic. Since all the fashions and accessories at the show came right from the shop, you'll find something just perfect for spring.

Marian's Attic is located in the Valley Forge Shopping Center in King of Prussia, PA (exact address is 255 Town Center Road). Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. We're open late on Thursdays until 8 p.m.

Donations of gently-used womens, men's, and children's clothing, accessories, shoes, costume jewelry, household items (no furniture, sorry), knickknacks and collectibles, books, videos, and DVDs are accepted during business hours and a tax receipt will be gladly provided. For more information about Marian's Attic, call 610-337-3068.

In Just One Day

2010-03-08T17:08:00.000-05:00

Laurel House was among 1,648 domestic violence programs throughout the United States country that participated in a national project called Domestic Violence Counts: A 24 Hour Census of Domestic Violence Shelters and Services. It is coordinated through the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), and this is the 4th year for the project.

Shelters are asked to track their statistics for one day (which Laurel House does every day for funding requirements). The results, released today in recognition of International Women's Day (but with the full understanding that domestic violence does not discriminate against gender), are shocking.

83% of the country's domestic violence programs collectively tracked their statistics for one designated day, September 15, 2009.

Within those programs, 65,321 adults and children were assisted through shelter, transitional housing, and advocacy.

23,045 hotline calls were answered (that's over 16 calls every minute!)

30,735 people were trained at 1,468 community education sessions.

9,280 requests for services went unmet because of a lack of resources or staffing. 60% of the unmet requests were for emergency shelter or transitional housing and 40% of the unmet requests were for non-residential services.

17,445 children under the age of 18 spent the night of September 15, 2009 in a domestic violence shelter or transitional housing program - far more than the approximately 11,000 children born every day across the U.S.

7 babies were born in a domestic violence shelter or transitional housing program.

For the full 2009 report and state summaries, please go to www.nnedv.org/census.

On Domestic Violence as the Perfect Winter Storm

2010-02-26T11:23:00.007-05:00

What an unprecedented winter this has been! As I write this post, we're in the midst of yet another storm, and the snow continues to swirl and drift in gusts outside my window. What we thought was expected is now different. What was planned is now cancelled, postponed, changed.

In a way, it's similar to what happens to so many people who are affected by domestic violence, isn't it?

Domestic violence is the perfect winter storm - of warnings and advisories and states of emergencies, of confusion swirling about, of coldness, of the not knowing what to expect on our doorstep in the morning.

And yet, always, in the midst of the storm and its aftermath there is help in the kindness of strangers, of the dedication of those in caring professions and those protecting others.

We saw this firsthand during the blizzard earlier this month. Although our administrative offices closed for two days, our shelter remained open and operating because during the February blizzard, there were 9 women and 9 children in crisis who needed shelter from the storms of domestic abuse in their lives.

Our staff member Michelle Malone and relief worker Robbin Garrett stayed at Laurel House's shelter from the morning of February 9 until the afternoon of February 12, so that those 9 women and 9 kids could be safe. In the coldest of days, that type of dedication is inspiring - and heartwarming.

It's also an example of why your financial support is so needed. Without your monetary gifts to Laurel House, there wouldn't have been a Michelle or Robbin at the shelter for three straight days.

There wouldn't have been a hotline for the young mother to call, the one who carried her infant in her arms while walking to the shelter in the blizzard.

There wouldn't have been heat, or the electricity to cook a warm meal or draw a hot bath.

We were there in the storm, and we are there in this storm, too.

And Laurel House will be there in the storm of domestic violence for as long as we are needed.

Be Part of Laurel House's 30th Anniversary "Tribute and Wish" Book

2010-02-09T18:50:00.000-05:00

As part of our year long celebration of Laurel House's 30 years of service to the community, we are compiling an electronic “Tribute and Wish” Book. This e-Book will be a place for colleagues, supporters and community members to share their good wishes for Laurel House. The Tribute Book will first be displayed at our upcoming 30th Anniversary Gala to be held at Meadowlands Country Club in Blue Bell on April 17, 2010. Following that event, the e-Book will be highlighted on our website for the remainder of the year.

We are reaching out to you to ask you to consider creating a “Wish” or a “Tribute” to be included in the e-Book. The cost to place a wish or tribute (consisting of a maximum of 100 characters) is just $30.00. All funds raised by this initiative will be used to support our direct service programs, as well as our community education/dating violence prevention efforts.

Larger ads, as well as “Tributes or “Wishes” of more than 100 characters, are also available:

Full Page (8 ½” x 11”)
$500.00

Half Page (8 ½” x 5 ½”)
$250.00

Quarter Page (4 ¼” x 5 ½”)
$100.00

30th Anniversary Message (100 characters maximum)
$30.00

General conditions:
All camera ready ads are subject to the approval of Laurel House. Please email to dhammett@laurel-house.org.
Payment must be made in full with ad and is non-refundable. Please make checks payable to Laurel House.
Camera ready art, Hi-Res PDF or EPS format preferred.

We value our on-going relationship with our community supporters, and we very much appreciate your consideration of our request. Please feel free to contact Beth Sturman, Executive Director, with questions or for more information about our upcoming 30th Anniversary Gala or other 30th Anniversary activities. Beth can be reached via email at: bsturman@laurel-house.org, or by phone at: 610-277-1860, ext. 113. Thank you.

PECO Energy Warms Hearts with Donation to Laurel House

2010-01-29T19:42:00.004-05:00

Outside, it's quite cold - but our hearts (and those of the families in our shelter) are warm, thanks to a recent fundraiser held by PECO Energy.

Each December, PECO employees at the Plymouth Service Building coordinate a baked goods and craft sale to benefit selected nonprofits in the immediate community. For the second consecutive year, PECO employees selected Laurel House as a beneficiary.

Laurel House was delighted to receive $420.00, representing a portion of the event's proceeds. (Our friends at Fellowship House in Conshohocken received the other portion.)

Attending the January 28 check presentation were (from left to right, pictured above) PECO representatives Nancy Mifflin and Eileen Mather; Beth Sturman, Executive Director of Laurel House; and PECO employees Cheryl Dowd, Sue Campbell, and Dave MacFarland.

Dave MacFarland, Manager of Support Services - Training, Methods, M&DS for PECO, wrote us a letter that explained why PECO selected Laurel House.

"We used this ... activity to raise money which could be given as a donation to a local agency that is focused on improving the lives of others. Your organization, the Laurel House, was identified as one of the agencies near our service building that is positively impacting the community .... Your efforts to help the families, specifically abused women and children, has not gone unnoticed."

Thank you, Dave, and everyone else at PECO. With the cold temperatures this weekend, this donation warms our hearts as we will use these much-needed funds to warm the hearts of the 11 women and 10 kids who are calling our shelter home.

The Malvern School to Host Chick-fil-A Fundraiser on 1/25 to Benefit LH

2010-01-19T13:50:00.001-05:00

Join us for dinner at the Chick-fil-A in Audubon, PA on Monday, January 25! The Malvern School of West Norriton will be hosting a Spirit Night to benefit Laurel House and everyone is invited.

DATE: Monday, January 25
TIME: 5 - 8 p.m.
WHERE: Chick-fil-A, 680 S. Trooper Road, West Norriton, PA

A portion of all sales between 5 - 8 p.m. will be donated to Laurel House. (Even drive-thru orders count, too!)

There will also be a prize wheel for $1, with 100% of all proceeds from the prize wheel being donated to Laurel House.

Thanks so much to our friends and the students at The Malvern School of West Norriton for organizing this event. We hope to see you there!

From Our Families: A Holiday Thank You

2009-12-23T15:30:00.006-05:00

These emails of thanks just arrived in our in-box, and because you've been so generous this holiday season, we wanted you to hear how your generosity has brought the spirit of the season to two Laurel House families.

"I can hardly put into words how I feel about what you all have brought to me this Christmas. I actually feel the joy of this season. I was floored when I saw everything I asked for in front of me. Please know I am so grateful & I am sooooo looking forward to sharing these gifts with my son. Thank you. Thank you! BTW, I'm scheduled to pick up my key for permanent housing on Jan 25!!"

And this:

"Thank you sooo much! We are indebted to your organization forever. The presents were great for the kids and I now have People pc (dial up) for my internet access at home. I will try to stop in today for the [donated] ballet tickets and on Monday go to Philadelphia to redeem them HOPEFULLY for the Dec 29th performance (my daughter T.'s birthday)."

Thank you, for giving the spirit of the season through your gifts to Laurel House.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday and happy, healthy 2010!

It's Snow Problem: Finish All Your Holiday Shopping with a Gift to Laurel House

2009-12-19T08:37:00.007-05:00

Can't get out to the malls and stores today to finish your holiday shopping? It's snow problem!You can cross everyone off your list from the comforts of your house today while giving a gift that supports the families at Laurel House.

Here's one idea:

Sponsor the Children’s Program for a Day

The shelter is usually filled with children (there are currently 16 children in the shelter today!) and we also have children living in our transitional housing apartments. Our Children’s Program costs approximately $180 a day.

You can Sponsor a Day in the Children's Program for $180 ... or a half day for $90, or a quarter of a day for $45.

Your gift will pay for needed supplies for the children’s playroom at the Shelter, fund a trained Children’s Advocate to work with the moms and kids in our Transitional Housing Program, and make it possible for a Laurel House staff member or volunteer to supervise the children in our Shelter to give their mothers a small, but much appreciated, break.

We'll even take care of acknowledging your gift directly to the person you are donating in honor of.

To Sponsor a Day in the Children's Program, click here to make your secure donation online. (You can also use the same form to make an end of year gift, or a donation in memory or in honor of someone.)

Happy Holidays from all of us at Laurel House!

Santa's Workshop? Or the Laurel House Conference Room?

2009-12-17T14:45:00.000-05:00

It's beginning to look a lot like you-know-who's workshop here at Laurel House, as our conference room is filled more than a sleigh with brand new toys.

Thanks to our generous donors, we have an abundance of toys to give to the children in our housing and counseling programs during the holiday season. Already, the children have enjoyed several festive events in celebration of Hanukkah, Christmas, and soon, Kwanzaa.

We now have more than enough toys for the kids, but if you are still wishing to support the youngest survivors of domestic violence, please consider our Sponsor a Day in the Children's Program campaign. Here's how it works:

It costs approximately $180 per day to operate our children's program.

By Sponsoring a Day, your donation pays for needed supplies for the children's playroom at the shelter, funds a trained children's advocate to work with the moms and kids in our transitional housing program, and helps to make it possible for a Laurel House staff member or volunteer to supervise the children in the shelter to give the moms a small, but much appreciated, break.

You can sponsor a full day in the children's program for $180, a half day for $90, or a quarter of a day for $45.

This is a great way to recognize birthdays and anniversaries all throughout the year, or to remember someone special in your heart.

To make your gift online, click here to donate. (Remember to tell us what day you'd like to sponsor!)

6 Ways Your Grocery or Gift Card Helps Laurel House Families

2009-12-07T12:15:00.001-05:00

"So, how do you actually use the gift cards for the families?" asked one of our donors.

It's a good question ... and it's one that has many answers. If you're thinking about making a gift card donation to Laurel House, or perhaps already have done so (thank you!), here are 6 ways that we use them to help a needy family:

1. We use them to purchase fresh produce, milk, eggs, bread, cheese, and other items for the meals in our emergency, confidential shelter. This helps to supplement donations of canned goods that we receive from collection drives.

2. Anyone who has moved into a new home knows that the first grocery bill is often higher than usual. It's the same for a family that's moving into one of the apartments in our transitional housing program. We like to give them a grocery gift card for that first shopping trip. Even $25 or $50 helps out.

3. We use Target and Walmart gift cards for similar purposes, too.

4. We have a counseling program for people who aren't ready to move into the shelter. Recently, we had a mom whose abuser was withholding food from her and her kids. They were hiding cans of tuna fish and peanut butter in their car so they wouldn't be without something to eat. We gave them a gift card so they could get a substantial meal.

5. There's always an unexpected need. Recently, one of the women's vacuum cleaners broke. A gift card helped her with some of the money needed to purchase a new one.

6. We recently gave a gift card to someone in our transitional housing program who had a special request. Her son is on his school's wrestling team and doing very well. To him, sports represents something that is constant in an uncertain life, and something he excels in. He outgrew his wrestling shoes and the mom did not have the funds to buy him a new pair. A gift card helped her surprise him with the shoes as an early holiday gift ... and allowed him to continue participating on the team.

To make a grocery or gift card donation, give us a call at 610-277-1860 or leave us a comment below.

Give Gifts that Give Back

2009-12-05T10:29:00.001-05:00

Tis the season for gift-giving ... and this year, you have two opportunities to give gifts from the heart and that make a difference to others locally and throughout the world. Laurel House is participating in two Alternative Gift Markets.

Sunday, December 6 ~ 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
“Gifts from the Heart”
St. James U.C.C. Alternative Gift Market 2009
St. James UCC , 321 S. Limerick Road, Limerick, PA

The Alternative Gift Market allows shoppers’ charitable contributions to provide meaningful, non-material holiday gifts to worthy non-profit organizations in honor of their friends, families, and associates.

If you can't make it on Sunday, there's two more opportunities.

Monday, December 7, 2009 ~ 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
1st Annual Partners for Families Alternative Gift Market
Plymouth Meeting Mall at the Church on the Mall
Print out the shopping list
Laurel House is among the local and global organizations participating in this event sponsored by Partners for Families, a nonprofit faith-based organization in Norristown that transforms the lives of families.

And finally, Laurel House is offering new Holiday Giving Opportunities this year along with its popular Alternative Giving program. (Click here for details, and here for Laurel House's online donation page to make a gift in honor or in memory of someone.)

In this season of giving, thank you for considering Laurel House in your gift-giving plans.

A Winning Night for a Laurel House Family

2009-11-18T13:02:00.006-05:00

Thanks to a donation of tickets from Verizon and the Philadelphia Eagles, Laurel House was able to provide a family with a night out at Lincoln Financial Field on November 8, where they had the opportunity to watch the Eagles take on the Cowboys.

Although their favorite team wasn't the victor, this family had a winning night, as the mom (Sarah) writes in this note to us.

I wanted to let you know what a wonderful time we had at the Eagles game on November 8. W. and R. were so excited to be going to the big game, Eagles vs. Cowboys. We got some Eagles gear, and made sure to take a blanket with us, and headed down early due to the SEPTA strike.

The kids and I had a friend who reserved us a parking spot in the closest lot, and when we went into the game, two kind strangers gave us complimentary passes to go down on to the field. It was very exciting to go in the stadium, under all of the bright lights and see our team come out onto the field. R. and W. ate chicken tenders, pizza, and had many hot chocolates. Despite the late night, and that the Eagles did not prevail, we had a great time. All of the people around us in our section got a kick out of our “die hard mini fans” in the making.

We will never forget the night at the Linc, under the big lights, cuddling together to cheer our team on. I had moments where I got nervous because of the high energy crowd, and crazy parking lot, but my kids just took it all in, and trusted that mommy knew what she was doing. I felt so proud of them.

Thank you so much for extending the tickets to my family. It was a gift we will remember forever.

With regards,

Sarah

Teens Host Spaghetti Dinner and Bingo Night to Benefit Laurel House

2009-11-17T14:00:00.000-05:00

At Laurel House, we're grateful to have so many teens and tweens who volunteer and organize projects (such as cell phone collection drives and special events) to support our families. We're proud of them for helping in our efforts in their community and for taking a stand to end domestic abuse.

We're especially proud of our partnership with the Teen Leaders Club of the Indian Valley Family YMCA. This incredible group of teenagers has been planning a Spaghetti Dinner and Bingo Night fundraiser for Laurel House ... and everyone is invited to join in the feast and the fun!

WHAT: Spaghetti Dinner and Bingo Night

DATE: Friday, November 20
TIME: 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.

PLACE: Indian Valley Family YMCA

890 Maple Avenue

Harleysville, PA 215-723-3569

Adults (12&up) $5.00 per person
Children (4-11) $3.00
Children (Under 3) FREE

Early-Bird Special (Seniors 60+) $4.00
5:00-6:00

BINGO starts at 7:00 p.m.
Every family: 1 card per person

50/50 Raffle

For JUST BINGO and NO DINNER – 50 cents per game

The Teen Leaders Club at the Indian Valley Family YMCA is a program created and implemented by teens under the supervision of adult advisors. Teens learn leadership skills through community involvement, intergenerational activities, special events, rallies, web site design, and more.

Come out and show your support for Laurel House ... and for this great group of teen leaders who are making a positive difference in our community!

Marian's Attic Hosts Cash 4 Gold Party on November 19

2009-11-16T10:55:00.003-05:00

Marian's Attic, the upscale resale boutique benefitting the programs of Laurel House, is hosting a Cash 4 Gold Party.

Thursday, November 19th
5 to 8 p.m.

Bring your GOLD jewelry (all karats) to Marian’s Attic and collect CASH!!

Jewelry • Single Earrings • Broken Chains • Coins

J&L Antiques will weigh and evaluate your GOLD and pay you CASH.

Enjoy wine & cheese and shop while you wait!

Marian’s Attic
Valley Forge Center, 255 Town Center Road
King of Prussia

Please call 610.337.3068
for more information.

3rd Annual Fine Arts & Craft Show to Benefit Laurel House

2009-11-13T15:15:00.000-05:00

Saturday, November 14
Fine Arts & Craft Show
Clubhouse at The Reserve at Gwynedd Upper Gwynedd
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

With an emphasis on items that are of the highest quality, green, ethical, and made in the USA, the Reserve at Gwynedd presents its 3rd Annual Fine Crafts & Art Show, with proceeds benefiting Laurel House. As of press time, 25 artisans are signed up as exhibitors.

In 2008, the Show attracted 500 visitors and raised more than $1,000 for Laurel House.

Thank you to our friends at The Reserve at Gwynedd for coordinating this show to help families in Montgomery County who are affected by domestic violence!

Temple University Students "Talk Frankly" with Laurel House and NBC10's Tracy Davidson

2009-11-10T08:40:00.004-05:00

Today's edition of the Temple News (a publication at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pa.) has a story by Temple News writer Sergei Blair about last week's campus event about dating violence. Laurel House's Tommie Wilkins, director of domestic violence education, and NBC10 anchor Tracy Davidson led the presentation. Read the article in its entirety below or by clicking here.

Students ‘talk frankly’ about abuse
November 10, 2009 by Sergei Blair

An NBC10 anchor and local abuse shelter education coordinator teamed up to discuss dating violence and domestic abuse at a campus event.

The issue of dating violence and domestic abuse is seldom discussed publicly. For many victims, it’s a personal subject. Some Temple students, however, attended an event last week at the Student Center to share their personal experiences and give encouragement to other abuse victims.

About 50 students and faculty members attended the event “Talking Frankly,” hosted by the Dean of Students Office. The hour-and-a-half talk, led by Tommie Wilkins, director of training and education at Laurel House domestic abuse shelter in Norristown, was highlighted with a special appearance by NBC 10 anchor Tracy Davidson.

The two discussed dating and domestic abuse and how to handle situations of abuse, along with personal stories of how domestic violence affected them.

“I grew up with domestic violence, so I witnessed it for a long time, the control that somebody can have over another person,” Davidson told the audience.

Unfortunately for many in situations similar to Davidson’s, the problem of abuse can follow its victims into their college years. Recent data on college dating violence and abuse from the National Center for Victims of Crime indicates that 60 percent of acquaintance rapes on college campuses occur in causal or steady relationships. The report says of all documented cases, 54 percent of dating violence victims stay in physically abusive relationships.

Wilkins identified the cycle of violence as a three-step process that most couples find themselves in during their relationships: a tension-building phase, then a violence and abuse phase, followed by an apologetic honeymoon phase. She said each step of the cycle develops over time and may reveal itself in subtle ways without others suspecting anything. The cycle only ends when someone involved in it takes action to end it, she said.

“The abuser is not going to let it go,” Wilkins said. “If it’s the abuser ending it, it will end in death.”

During the discussion, an open forum was provided for students to ask questions. Some took the opportunity to open up and share their own stories of how dating abuse affected their lives. One student was overcome with emotions when she recalled instances of emotional abuse and bullying she suffered from acquaintances on campus and how her boyfriend ended up being the one person she could lean on through rough times.

“He knew how to take the emotional abuse that I felt from this school and hold me. All I wanted was someone to hear me and understand what I was going through,” she said.

Sexual crimes do not seem to dominate the crime statistics at Temple, which generally sees high numbers of robberies, thefts and aggravated assaults. According to figures from Campus Safety Services’ 2009 Annual Security and Fire Safety report, there were four documented cases of forcible sex offenses last year on Main Campus. That number decreased by 71 percent from 14 cases reported in 2007.

Wilkins explained that no matter what type of relationship it may be, the issue of dating and domestic abuse all boils down to a single issue – the power of control.

Wilkins said the power of control stems from the past and ultimately affects most relationships in the future. She added the most common way of thinking of most abusers have a lot to do with taking advantage of power they never had.

“Even though I grew up in a great home, somewhere in my life I felt powerless and out of control,” she explained. “This relationship is how I get that control back.”

Wilkins and Davidson teamed up on behalf of Laurel House, an independent nonprofit organization that provides shelter, medical care and legal advocacy, plus a free 24-hour help hotline for victims of abuse.After the discussion, students were offered resources for abuse prevention. Several on-campus clubs and organizations, including the Health Education Awareness Resource Team provided assistance and literature on the topic.

Among others, one small organization with a big presence at the event was LIFT. As part of a larger group, the National Student Partnerships founded by college undergraduates in 1998 to work side-by-side with low-income community members and college students, LIFT at Temple handles issues like poverty, healthcare, employment and education.

Student volunteer Trang Pham said her organization is also dedicated to helping victims of abuse.“We’ve seen a couple of times when our clients come in with bruises, and we just want to know how we can help them and how we can bring up the topic without making them feel uncomfortable,” she said.Although the event was primarily geared toward females, as they more often find themselves in abusive situations, several male students and faculty members joined the conversation as well.

“There are women out there who are physically and psychologically [abusive] to their boyfriends and husbands,” Wilkins said. “It’s no longer a gender issue where there’s this big guy beating up poor, helpless women. There are some scary women out there.”

Sergei Blair can be reached at sergei.blair@temple.edu.

Thank you, Sergei, for covering this event and raising awareness through your reporting about domestic abuse.

Mirror, Mirror Prompts Discussion About Dating Violence

2009-11-08T11:27:00.004-05:00

Laurel House is a member of Tri-County Community Network, which recently worked with students at Pottstown High School (Pottstown, Pa.) on a student production called "Mirror, Mirror" about dating violence.

Here's the article from the Pottstown Mercury, 11/7/09. Laurel House extends congratulations to all the performers in this production for using your talents to bring attention to such an important issue.

POTTSTOWN — Pottstown High School students are playing their part to bring awareness to National Domestic Violence Month. Members of the Pottstown High Acting Troupe, under the direction of Joseph Perrone, performed "Mirror, Mirror" to a student audience. The project was a collaborative effort with the TriCounty Community Network. Cast members were Melissa Barboza, Isaih Robinson, Jessica Rhoads, Braxton Johnson, Dequan Washington and Hayley Steltz. Amanda Thomas was assistant director. Stage manager was Alex Argue.Representatives of Laurel House, Diamond Credit Union, Creative Health Services and Family Services led small group discussions about safe dating.

Laurel House's 5 Ideas for Simple, Unique and Meaningful Holiday Gifts

2009-11-06T14:18:00.013-05:00

Every holiday season, we receive an abundance of toys and gifts for the women and children in Laurel House's shelter.

But we know the recession continues to be very tough on everyone, and we know (because you've told us!) that you want your gifts to family and friends to matter this year, to make a difference.

So do we.

This year, we've put aside the toys and material things to give you 5 simple, unique, meaningful, and charitable ways that you can help families at Laurel House during the holiday season and well into 2010.

Gift Idea #1 : Sponsor a Day in the Children's Program

The shelter is usually filled with children, and we also have children living in our transitional housing apartments. We have calculated that our Children's Program costs approximately $180 a day for supplies, salaries for children's advocates, snacks, etc.

If you need a special gift for the person who has everything ... sponsor a day in the Children's Program in their name. Just send us a check or give us a call at 610-277-1860, ext. 102 and let us know the date you want to fund.

(If you are unable to fund an entire day, you can sponsor half a day with $90, or a quarter of a day with $45. )

Gift Idea #2: Give a Grocery Cart of Food

When you are at the supermarket buying everything you need for the perfect holiday dinner, put a grocery store gift card in your cart. You just helped a woman in our transitional housing program buy fresh produce for her family!

Gift Idea #3: Give a Gas Gift Card

When you fill up your tank, buy a gas gift card for the same amount. You just helped a woman get to a class, drop her kids off at day care, or go to a job interview.

Gift Idea #4: Give the Gift of a Good Night's Sleep

Want a fun way to get kids involved in the spirit of giving? Host a sleepover with several of your child's friends and ask each person bring either a new pillow or a new twin sized blanket to donate to the shelter. (We can provide the stuffed animals and teddy bears to the kids in our shelter ... we've got plenty to go around!)

Will you need a unique hostess gift or a thank-you for someone whose home you stayed at over the holidays? Make a donation to Laurel House's shelter in their honor. (We can even provide a custom card for you to present to your recipient.) You just helped a woman and her kids have a safe good night's sleep during their first night at the Laurel House shelter.

Gift Idea #5: Give the Gift of Clean

As you are packing up fragile holiday decorations, put aside a few unused rolls of paper towels. With 27 people in the shelter, cleaning is a must! There is a great need for paper towels and cleaning products all year round.

We hope these ideas inspired you to think a little differently about your holiday giving this year and ways to help Laurel House all year round!

Ready to make your holiday gift? Click here and follow the links in the yellow box.

Laurel House November 2009 E-News

2009-11-02T14:40:00.000-05:00

Our November 2009 e-newsletter has just been published.

You can read it here or by pastng this link into your browser:

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs021/1101371993152/archive/1102755363775.html?sms_ss=email

Basket Bingo Fundraiser on Friday, November 6

2009-11-02T12:55:00.001-05:00

Join us on Friday, November 6 for

Basket Bingo

Featuring Longaberger Baskets

Sponsored by Laurel House
to support its DART for Law Enforcement Program

Friday, November 6th, 2009
Limerick Fire Company
390 W Ridge Pike
Royersford, PA 19468

Doors Open at 6:00 p.m. - Bingo Starts at 7:00 p.m.
$20 in Advance - $25 at the Door for 20 Regular Games
Door Prizes, Raffles, Jackpots and More!
Early Bird Game for Advance Ticket Purchasers

BYOB

For Tickets and Information, Contact
Heather Chiarlanza
heatherchiarlanza@whitemarshpd.org
267-228-0433

Tina Reynolds
treynolds@laurel-house.org
610-277-1860 ext. 108

Photos are from the 2008 Basket Bingo event.

Longaberger, other baskets and collection names are the property of The Longaberger Company. This fundraiser is not sponsored by The Longaberger Company.

And the Winners Are ...

2009-10-26T14:40:00.001-04:00

Artie Ziemer (second from left) and Brett "Mitchell" Michener (third from left), whose posters took first and second place prize, respectively, in the Teen Dating Violence Poster Contest. The students, both from North Montco Technical Career Center, were recognized on October 22, 2009 at a ceremony held at the Montgomery County Court House in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Offering their congratulations were their teacher, Candace Weber (pictured at left) and Laurel House's Executive Director, Beth Sturman (right).

First place winner Artie Ziemer is pictured with his winning design, shown close up. Later that evening, Artie was honored at the Montgomery County Commission of Women and Families' annual dinner.

Brett "Mitchell" Michener's poster (below) carried the message of There's a Difference Between Love and Control.

Finally, another entry implored teen to Shatter the Silence and Stop Dating Violence Now.

All of the posters carried the number for the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline, 866-331-9474 and the website loveisrespect.org.

Congratulations to the winners!

Teen Dating Violence: Stop It In the Classroom Before It Gets to The Courtroom

2009-10-21T14:25:00.006-04:00

Laurel House and the Domestic Violence Legal Network (DVLN) of Montgomery County invite the public to attend a special event in connection with Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Teen Dating Violence:

Stop It in the Classroom Before It Gets to the Courtroom

October 22, 2009

Noon
Montgomery County Court House (Courtroom “A”)
Norristown, Pennsylvania

Presentation will include

Awards and ceremony for winners of the

Teen Dating Violence Poster Contest

Thomas Barone Scholarship presentation

Keynote Speaker: The Honorable S. Gerald Corso

Judge Corso will share his experiences during his time on the juvenile court bench in relation to the issue of teen dating violence

Closing Remarks
District Attorney Risa Vetri Ferman

For questions or more information, please contact 610-277-1860

or mfirman@laurel-house.org (or leave a comment here on the blog)

Laurel House and Cabrini College: Teaching Tomorrow's Educators About Domestic Violence Today

2009-10-16T09:24:00.001-04:00

Laurel House and Cabrini College in Radnor, Pa. are working together on an innovative project that is part of a senior convergence class. Student Rachael Renz reported on the class for the 10/15/09 issue of The Loquitur, Cabrini College's newspaper. Read Rachael's article below, as well as Loquitur's editor Brian Loschiavo's editorial, "College Students Affected by Domestic Violence."

"Convergence class brings awareness to domestic violence" by Rachael Renz

Every year students take the senior convergence multimedia class offered at Cabrini and each year they create something new and impactful. In the past, students choose to create their multimedia Web site on war, immigration and student activism. The class of 2010 has decided on a topic that may potentially benefit not only the general public, but more specifically, educators.

"We want to educate teachers on how to spot domestic violence. There are so many different aspects of this abuse that need to be acknowledged," Molly Kearney, senior communication major, said.

The presence of domestic violence throughout the world has been affecting people every minute of the day. Most individuals have little knowledge that every nine seconds a woman is being abused. Most aren't aware that there are more than five types of domestic violence and 10 different warning signs to spot the abuse.

Part of their research included the class venturing to the Laurel House in Norristown, Pa., which is a battered woman's shelter that provides not only a home, but counseling to its victims. The shelter has nine bedrooms and 27 beds. The Laurel House also shelters approximately 200 women and 400 children per year.

On Thursday, Oct. 8, the convergence students met with Minna Davis, director of counseling at the Laurel House. To enlighten the students, Davis created a presentation and also showed short films on domestic violence. The presentation was titled, "Impact of Exposure to Domestic Violence on Children," and included facts, definitions and statistics of domestic abuse.

According to Davis, 85 percent of victims of spousal assault known to the police are females and only five percent of men who abuse their partner finish counseling.

The students also learned that it is more common for pregnant women to be abused, which in turn, affects the baby because the mother's body is tense due to the harm. The time that the abuse is the worst is when the victim tries to leave the situation.

These facts are among the many that were acknowledged during the four hour meeting. Noelle Westfall, senior communication major, said that she learned a lot from speaking with Davis that the class can incorporate into their Web site.

"I find this project to be eye-opening and mind-blowing. Our ultimate goal is to have our Web site be an online course for teachers to take as a requirement for their teaching license. I guide the students through this course but they do all of the work," Cathy Yungmann, associate professor of communication and professor of the senior convergence class, said.

For every victim who goes to the Laurel House looking for help, the shelter gives them support. The police benefit from this help as well because the Laurel House raises the number of women who report their abuse, in turn raising awareness. The convergence Web site is just beginning its formation and will be completed at the end of spring semester in 2010.

"Thank you for doing all of this research. Hopefully one day you'll change the world," Davis said.

copyright 2009 The Loquitur

Laurel House Joins America's Giving Challenge on Facebook

2009-10-14T14:43:00.005-04:00

Laurel House is participating in America's Giving Challenge being hosted on Facebook and sponsored by Parade Magazine and The Case Foundation.

Through the America's Giving Challenge on our Causes page, Laurel House has the opportunity to win $50,000 for our shelter, hotline, transitional housing, counseling, community education, medical advocacy, and other supportive services for families affected by domestic abuse.

Visit our Causes page and recruit your Facebook Friends to help us raise funds and awareness about domestic violence.

(Note that donations made through Causes are handled and processed through Facebook via a partnership with Network for Good. To make a donation directly to Laurel House, go to our secure online donation page here.)

A Note from an Attendee

2009-10-14T14:32:00.006-04:00

Martina Walls, a guest who attended the Amazing Yoga event on Monday evening with our friends from ocean earth wind fire, sent along this note about the event:ent along some thoughts on how Laurel House has helped people in her life.

Dear Susan,
This evening was wonderful. Laurel House has helped many children and their mothers that have touched my life in Norristown over the past 15 years. They also offer to come to our schools and talk to students about domestic violence. I left this evening chilled but with a warmth inside that I did not have before I came. Thank you.
Martina Walls

Thank you, Martina, for the kind words and for being part of the yoga event!

ocean earth wind fire yoga event photos

2009-10-13T15:12:00.004-04:00

Instructors from ocean earth wind fire presented an Amazing Yoga event on Monday, October 12 to benefit Laurel House.

Guests were welcomed by Beth Sturman, Laurel House's Executive Director, and Administrative Assistant Dorothy Hammett.

The warmth of a fire, inspiring music, and nourishing food added to the yoga experience.

Special thanks to local author Alison Dittmar and her husband Joe (both pictured below) for sharing their photos with us!

and to everyone who attended the event to help raise funds for Laurel House's programs and services.

Thank you so much!

From Laurel House to Her Own House: Montco Habitat for Humanity Helps Pottstown Woman Move Forward

2009-10-12T11:30:00.000-04:00

In the drizzling Saturday afternoon rain, Laurel House's deputy director Bill Baldwin was among dozens smiling as Marlene Williams opened the door to her new Habitat for Humanity home in Pottstown.

Marlene is one of many women who received shelter, legal representation, and other supportive services from Laurel House.

As Marlene and her daughter begin their new life, she's an inspiring example of the possibility of starting anew and how many agencies in Montgomery County partnered together to make a difference.

The Pottstown Mercury tells Marlene's story in this wonderful article which you can read here.

In Their Own Words: Laurel House Video (10:59)

2009-10-11T11:04:00.003-04:00

In their own words, Laurel House's Founding Mothers, current staff, and survivors talk about how Laurel House makes a difference by working to end domestic violence in every life, home, and community.

Click the arrows to begin watching now. Let us know what you think!

Laurel House's BFFs Make Girls Night Out a Success

2009-10-08T15:23:00.001-04:00

Saks Fifth Avenue in Bala Cynwyd was the place to be on Wednesday, October 7 when more than 125 Laurel House supporters and their BFFs enjoyed a festive Girls Night Out.

Chaired by Heather Andrews and Amanda Beeler, GNO's proceeds will benefit Laurel House's domestic violence education programs throughout Montgomery County.

Attendees enjoyed a night of shopping, tarot card readings, hand massages, and fine wine.

Laurel House is especially grateful to all of its BFFs, especially Saks Fifth Avenue for hosting the event and A la Maison, the new French Bistro in Ardmore which generously donated all the catering for the evening and recently voted "Best New Restaurant 2009" by Main Line Today.

Photos from the event can be viewed and purchased at Susan Scovill On the Main Line.

Thank you to everyone for making Girls Night Out such a tremendous success for Laurel House's domestic violence programs!

Space Still Available for Laurel House Workshop on October 16

2009-10-07T10:30:00.000-04:00

Seats are still available for an upcoming workshop, "Addressing Domestic Violence in the Health Care Setting," which will be offered by Laurel House in partnership with Lankenau Hospital and Main Line Health on Friday, October 16.

The workshop will be held at the Annenberg Conference Center on the campus of Lankenau Hospital (100 Lancaster Avenue, Wynnewood, Pa.). Sign in and breakfast begins at 8:30 AM followed by the full-day workshop presentation from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Cost is $50 and reservations must be made by October 10. (Registrations will not be accepted at the door.) Click here to access the Online Registration form.

This program is open to all health care, human service and law enforcement personnel who have direct contact with domestic violence and sexual assault victims within the State of Pennsylvania.

"Health care providers are often the first people outside the home to see the injuries caused by domestic violence," states Jan Biresch, who is the Medical Advocate for Laurel House and the trainer who will present the October 16 workshop.

Biresch adds that because more than half of all victims are sexually assaulted, the discussion will address the new minimal forensic examination when rape is disclosed. This information-packed workshop will provide tools to appropriately assess a domestic violence situation in only two minutes.

"My goal is that by the end of the session participants will have a better understanding of the dynamics of victims and abusers, and to be better able to identify victims in a health care setting," added Biresch.

Biresch will be presenting with other community healthcare professionals including the PA Coalition Against Rape, Victim Services of Montgomery County, a sexual assault nurse examiner from Abington Memorial Hospital, and Mission Kids, a new nonprofit created by the collaborative effort of the Montgomery County District Attorney, the Police Chiefs of Montgomery County, and the Montgomery County Office of Children and Youth to help ease the criminal justice process for abused children in Montgomery County.

Continuing Education Credit information:
“This continuing nursing education activity was approved by the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.” There will be 5 Contact Hours of nursing credits offered for those completing the entire program and responding to the evaluation sheet. “There will be case manager credits given by CCMC.” “This conference is approved for a maximum of 5 clock hours of credit issued by the PA Social Work Board via approval #SWCE091423

For additional information, contact Jan Biresch at 610-277-1860, ext. 106.

30 Days ... 30 Years

2009-10-01T14:39:00.002-04:00

With the just-published October 2009 issue of our e-newsletter, we launch the beginning of our 30th year of opening doors for people experiencing domestic violence.

You can find our October e-newsletter here or, by pasting this url into your browser:

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs021/1101371993152/archive/1102715627707.html

Let us know what you think!

A Timely Response by Volunteers from the Verizon TelecomPioneers

2009-09-30T15:00:00.001-04:00

It took three very full SUVs to transport all the groceries donated to Laurel House today by members of the Verizon TelecomPioneers' Northeast Council Liberty Bell Chapter.

They arrived this morning, first thing, and soon our conference room table (and some of the room itself) was filled with jugs of apple juice, boxes of pretzels and crackers, condiments, oatmeal, pounds of pasta and rice, and industrial-sized cans of tomato sauce.

While we were organizing the groceries, one of our counselors came into the conference room. She had a client, she said, whose abuser just cut off her access to all the food in the house, for herself and her children. They were hungry, they needed help, they were working out a plan.

Could we help this family out with some food?

Yes. We could help.

Because so many people already have.

Dinner Was Served ... and Donated by Kildare's

2009-09-30T09:11:00.001-04:00

Dinner at Laurel House's shelter was a special treat on Tuesday evening, thanks to Dave Magrogan and the staff of Kildare's , the Irish pub restaurant in King of Prussia.

Kildare's donated more than two dozen sandwiches - hot off its brand new menu - to Laurel House for last night's dinner. Kildare's was connected to Laurel House through NBC10 news reporter Tracy Davidson.

"We have 11 women and 12 kids here in our shelter," said Jenny Boyer, Housing Director for Laurel House. "At times like this, when we truly have a full house, we're even more grateful to people like Mr. Magrogan, Tracy Davidson, and the folks at Kildare's for making sure everyone has a great, delicious meal."

Laurel House's Tommie Wilkins to Speak at Saint Joseph's University Program 9/29 on Dating Violence

2009-09-29T14:29:00.003-04:00

Students from the Rape Education and Prevention (R.E.P.P.) program at Saint Joseph's University have organized an awareness event scheduled for this evening, September 29, which will feature Laurel House's Tommie Wilkins as a speaker.

Ms. Wilkins, who is Laurel House's director of domestic violence education and training, will be speaking to the Saint Joseph's community about dating violence and healthy relationships. The Empty Place at the Table will also be on display.

The speaking event is part of a month long series of programs and activities at Saint Joseph's designed to raise awareness about interpersonal violence and safe dating. (Among the month-long events is the annual Kristin's Krusade, a 5K run/walk fundraiser scheduled for October 4 at SJU to benefit The Kristin Mitchell Foundation, named in memory of a SJU alumna who was killed as a result of dating violence.)

Laurel House is proud to be a community partner with Saint Joseph's University and its Rape Education and Prevention program, which distributes awareness materials around campus and organizes Take Back the Night events, among others.

We also thank Racquel Bergen, Chair of the Sociology Department at Saint Joseph's University, R.E.P.P. faculty liaison, and nationally-recognized expert on violence against women, for allowing us to be part of such an important effort.

Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Poster Contest Deadline Fast Approaching

2009-09-28T10:00:00.001-04:00

Calling all high school student artists!

Thursday October 1 is the last day for Montgomery County, Pa. high school students to enter the 2009 Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Poster Contest, sponsored by Laurel House and many other community organizations (see list at end of this post).

“Dating Violence and the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline” is the theme for the 2009 contest. Entries must be postmarked by October 1, 2009. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will receive monetary prizes, and the 1st place winner's poster will be used as the Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention poster for Montgomery County schools from October 2009 to October 2010.

All winning posters will be placed on Laurel House's website. A copy of the official Contest Rules and Registration Form can be found here, or by pasting http://www.laurel-house.org/index.php?pr=Poster_Contest in your browser. All posters must have a completed Registration Form on the back of their entry.

Sponsoring organizations include:
Upper Perkiomen Domestic Violence Task Force
Montgomery County Teen Parent Task Force
North Penn Community Action Team
Domestic Violence Legal Network
Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library
Women's Center of Montgomery County
Victim Services Center of Montgomery County
Tri-County Community Network
Laurel House

For questions or more information, contact Tommie Wilkins, Director of Domestic Violence Training and Education at Laurel House, twilkins@laurel-house.org or at 610-277-1860, ext. 100.

Flea Market this Weekend at United Storage (Montgomeryville, PA) to Benefit Laurel House

2009-09-24T12:14:00.000-04:00

This Saturday, September 26, our friends at United Storage in Montgomeryville, PA are planning a Flea Market to benefit Laurel House. The event begins at 8 a.m.

Cost is $25 per table, which will be donated to Laurel House. Additional vendors are needed and welcomed.

For more information or to reserve your space, call 215-591-9098.
United Storage is located at 1044 Bethlehem Pike (southbound on Bethlehem Pike between Stump and Hartman) in Montgomeryville, PA.

Hope to see you there!

King of Prussia Indians Football Association Score Points with Food Drive

2009-09-23T16:50:00.002-04:00

Teamwork from the King of Prussia Indians Football Association resulted in a big win recently for Laurel House's shelter.

The football league learned of Laurel House's empty pantry and full shelter from our recent email and blog post, and rallied together to help tackle the problem.

A collection drive was held at the beginning of the football association's season earlier this month, and a friendly competition was launched among the teams. The goal was to collect the most non-perishable groceries for Laurel House's shelter (and the winning team got the extra points of receiving free water ice for a week).

A generous donation of $100 from the King of Prussia Indians' board kicked off the food drive and supplemented the non-perishable items with fresh meat, fruit, and vegetables.

Congratulations to the members of 75JV (the winning team pictured at the beginning of this post), to food drive organizers Fran Littlewood and Joelle Newell who delivered the groceries to Laurel House's shelter with help from cheerleaders Hannah and Jenna (all pictured here) and everyone who supported this effort.

You are all true champions.

Tracy Davidson Highlights Laurel House Poster Contest on Her Website

2009-09-18T16:08:00.000-04:00

Awarding winning news anchor and reporter Tracy Davidson highlights Laurel House's Poster Contest on her website!

You can read the full article here.

Thank you, Tracy!

Laurel House Mentioned in Article about North Penn United Way's "Day of Caring"

2009-09-16T10:00:00.000-04:00

Laurel House is mentioned in today's (9/16/09) edition of The Reporter, in a story highlighting volunteer efforts. It focuses on the need for more volunteers to participate through the North Penn United Way's Day of Caring, scheduled for next Tuesday, September 22.

You can read the full article here.

If you'd like to participate with North Penn United Way's Day of Caring, a lengthy list of projects that still need a helping hand is available online at http://LiveUnitedDelVal.VolunteerMatch.org. Just search on the 19446 area code and click on the "Days of Caring" list.

For information on volunteering at Laurel House, contact Tina at (610) 277-1860, ext. 108 or email her at treynolds@laurel-house.org.

Violence Against Women Act Marks 15th Anniversary

2009-09-15T14:01:00.003-04:00

This week, the Department of Justice commemorates the 15th anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which was signed into law on September 13, 1994. Below is the press release from the Department of Justice. You can access the full release here.

This critical legislation was created in recognition of the severity of the crimes associated with domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. The anniversary also marks 15 years since the creation of the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), which administers financial and technical assistance to communities around the country to facilitate the creation of programs, policies and practices aimed at ending domestic and dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.

"We’ve made tremendous progress since the Violence Against Women Act first passed in 1994, but we have much more to do. We cannot rest. It will take all of us to fulfill the promise to end domestic violence and sexual assault," said Vice President Joe Biden, the author of the landmark Violence Against Women Act.

"The Violence Against Women Act forever changed the way this nation meets our responsibility to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. It has been an essential building block in the Justice Department’s work to end violence against women," said Attorney General Eric Holder. "It is only in working together that we can make a difference and save lives, and the Justice Department will continue to take every possible step to enforce laws protecting victims of violence and to provide resources to aid victim service providers."

"Without a doubt, VAWA would never have happened without the steadfast commitment and work of the countless advocates, coalitions and community partners who worked tirelessly for federal legislation to mark the importance of the issue and provide vital resources," said Catherine Pierce, Acting Director of OVW. "In the past 15 years, countless lives have been saved, the voices of survivors have been heard, families have been protected, and the criminal justice community has been trained on the complex responses to domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking."

The anniversary marks the start of a year-long anniversary effort to raise public awareness on issues around violence against women, to reinforce and build coalitions among federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement and victim services communities, and to reinforce the goal of ending domestic and dating violence, sexual assault and stalking for men, women and children across the country.

In recognition of the severity of the crimes associated with gender-motivated violence, Congress passed VAWA as part of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994. VAWA is comprehensive legislative designed to end violence against women through criminal penalties, federal grant programs, and research and was reauthorized in 2000 and 2005. Since the passage of VAWA, there has been a paradigm shift in how the issue of violence against women is addressed in communities throughout the nation.

OVW was created to specifically implement VAWA and subsequent legislation. Currently, OVW administers two formula grant programs and 17 discretionary grant programs, all of which were established under VAWA and subsequent legislation. The office has also maintained a 15-year partnership with state, local and tribal governments, coalitions, law enforcement, prosecutors, judges and court personnel, victim advocates, health care providers and national organizations.

Every day, VAWA funding makes a difference in how communities across America help victims and hold offenders accountable. For example, subgrantees receiving funding awarded by states through OVW’s STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program reported that, in calendar year 2007:

More than 505,000 victims were served;
Over 1,201,000 services were provided to victims; and
More than 4,700 individuals were arrested for violations of protection orders.

Girls' Night Out on Oct 7 at Saks Fifth Avenue to Support Laurel House

2009-09-11T14:53:00.004-04:00

SAVE THE DATE

The Women's Committee of Laurel House
invites you to

Join us for
G N O
[GIRLS' NIGHT OUT]

Enjoy an evening of food & drink,
tarot card readings, hand massages
& 15% off purchases *!
at

in support of
LAUREL HOUSE

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2009
5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

* some exclusions apply

$30 for you and two of your BFFs
$50 for you and all of your BFFs

Email Beth at bsturman@laurel-house.org
to make reservations or for more information

Happy 3rd Birthday, Marian's Attic!

2009-09-08T09:20:00.000-04:00

Marian’s Attic, Laurel House’s boutique-style resale shop, is 3 years old!

At Marian's Attic, which opened its doors on September 7, 2006, gently-used fashions can be found for a fraction of their original cost. The store, located on Rt. 202 in King of Prussia, thrives as an upscale frugal fashionista’s delight as well as a needed community resource for domestic violence victims.

Along with women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, Marian’s Attic welcomes donations of accessories, jewelry, household items and collectibles, books, videos, CDs, and cell phones. (Right now, we're especially in need of men's ties ... we'd love for our tie rack to look like this again!)

All proceeds benefit the programs and services of Laurel House, which is Montgomery County’s only comprehensive domestic violence organization.

“When donating items, we encourage people to ask themselves one question: would this truly be something they would give to a loved one or a best friend?” suggests Bev McGloin, who has managed Marian’s Attic since its inception.

“We provide vouchers for women at Laurel House to shop for free whenever they need an interview suit or school and seasonal clothing for their child," McGloin adds.

"And since domestic violence affects everyone, the survivors aren’t any different than anyone else in that they like to look and feel good, so it’s important that the clothing and items be free of stains and rips and in usable condition.”

Information about Laurel House’s programs, as well as how to help someone affected by domestic violence, is also available at the shop.

“Oftentimes, someone is hesitant about calling our hotline but desperately needs to know that help is available,” explains Beth Sturman, Executive Director for Laurel House. “It’s easier to pick up a brochure on safety planning or our free counseling services. We have a lot of information available at the shop so people know what steps they can take."

Most of the people who wait on customers, run the register, stock the shelves and receive your donations at Marian’s Attic are volunteers. If you have a few hours a week, or even every other week, and would like to know more about volunteer opportunities, please call the shop at (610) 337-3068 and speak with Bev or Eileen.

Stop by Marian's Attic to wish them a happy birthday this week at 255 Town Center Road at the rear of the Valley Forge Shopping Center (near Peppers & Michael’s Deli). Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., and we're open late on Thursday evenings until 8:00 p.m.

New Domestic Abuse Support Group in Collegeville, PA to Begin on Tuesday 9/8

2009-09-04T11:00:00.001-04:00

Has your partner or ex-partner ever acted jealous ... tried to keep you away from family and friends ... hit or hurt you ... put you down or called you names?

Perhaps Laurel House's new support group in the Collegeville, PA area can help.

The group begins this Tuesday evening, September 8 at 7 p.m. It is designed for women who are currently experiencing or have experienced this type of abuse and want to have their voices heard and understood, learn about the dynamics of abuse, build trusting relationships, and connect with other women. The group's facilitator is a marriage and family therapist.

We anticipate being able to offer childcare within the next week or so, but unfortunately we're not able to offer it for this first session.

Additional support groups meet on Monday evenings in both the Norristown and North Wales, PA areas. Laurel House also offers individual domestic violence counseling for both men and women who have been victimized by their partners. Counselors are master's level clinical social work and counseling psychology interns, supervised by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

Laurel House's counseling services and support groups are confidential and free of charge. For more information, call 610-277-1860, ext. 118 for times and location details. Or, email mdavis@laurel-house.org for more information.

Full Cupboards, Full Hearts

2009-08-31T12:30:00.000-04:00

Last week, we wrote about our shelter being full (and it still is). This week, we're full in a different way.

We're filled with gratitude.

Our shelter's pantry is once again filled with an abundance of food, thanks to the incredible response to our email last week requesting help.

We asked and so many of you answered - by making donations of food and funds (in one case, your last $10 before payday). You answered by organizing collection drives in your neighborhood and in your offices. By asking your friends and families to help.

And our response of thank you seems so little, as we are filled with heartfelt appreciation that so many people care. We're living in unprecedented economic times, and all of us - all of us - are feeling the effects of strained pocketbooks and dwindling resources. Still, that didn't stop you from reaching out, doing what you could. And then asking, what else? Can we do more?

Our cupboards are filled now, but the need will remain, especially as we approach the fall and winter months. We will continue needing your support to keep our shelter warm, to provide our families with nourishing meals. We're touched to hear that several people plan to replace toy drives with "basic needs" drives for our families this holiday season, for that's what will be needed.

You reminded us of so much with your response to the food drive - that we're all in this together, that others care so very much, that even when the challenges of the day fill our plates to overflowing, there's always room for a helping hand and a compassionate heart.

Thank you. From the bottom of our (very full) hearts.

Help Feed the Families at Laurel House

2009-08-26T13:12:00.001-04:00

Laurel House's domestic violence shelter is full today. (We have 11 women and 15 kids here right now. Yes, you read that right ... 15 little kids!)

Our pantry, however, is almost empty.

With the ongoing Pennsylvania budget crisis, our funds are tighter than usual. Which is why we're asking for your help to feed our families.

We really need the following non-perishable grocery items:

- single and family-sized cans of Chef Boy-R-Dee
- single and family-sized cans of soup
- spaghetti sauce (we have the pasta ... just need the sauce)
- juice (preferably in large jugs, not juice boxes)
- oatmeal
- grits
- canned tuna
- rice
- baked beans
- condiments (ketchup, mayo, mustard)
- after-school snacks for kids
- paper towels
- toilet paper (septic-system friendly)

Items may be dropped off between 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. at Laurel House's office (605 Swede Street, Norristown, PA) or at our resale shop, Marian's Attic in the Valley Forge Shopping Center, 255 Town Center Road in King of Prussia, PA.)

If you would like to make a financial contribution towards this effort, you can send a check to Laurel House, P.O. Box 764, Norristown, PA 19404. Or you can make a gift online by clicking here. (Any amount will be greatly appreciated.)

On behalf of the families in our shelter, we thank you.

Posted by Beth E. Sturman, Executive Director, Laurel House

Get Ready, Set, and Registered for Laurel House's 5K Dash Against Domestic Violence

2009-08-25T13:15:00.000-04:00

Get on your mark ... get set ... go register for Laurel House's 5K Dash Against Domestic Violence !

Our annual 5K is right around the corner, taking place on Sunday, October 25 at beautiful Parkside Place (near the Upper Gwynedd Township Building at Sumneytown Pike and Park Place) in North Wales, PA.

Registration/check in begins at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K Run and Fitness Walk at 9 a.m. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are welcome.

The top female and male runners will receive overall awards. Awards are given to the top female and male age group winners. Age groups are 14 and under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50 and over. Course certification #PA 07010 WB.

Awards will be given to the top 3 pledge raisers, too. Laurel House's 5K Dash offers a great opportunity for friends, students, families, and co-workers to form a team to walk (or run) together against domestic violence.

Entry fee for the event is $25.00. Proceeds benefit Laurel House's Nehemiah's Way and DART II programs, both coordinated through our North Wales office.

Nehemiah's Way provides housing for survivors of domestic violence to live independently for up to two years. DART II offers immediate crisis intervention for law enforcement officers responding to domestic violence calls, regardless of the day or night.

(You may even see one of our DART II officers, like our friend Officer Fred Lynch above, volunteering their time along the DASH route to make sure everyone stays safe.)

Laurel House is able to help countless people affected by domestic violence because of sponsors and supporters of the 5K DASH, like these:

Event Sponsor

Merck

Media Sponsor

The Reporter

Abington Bank
Allan and Joyce Goldberg
Sue DePaul - Allstate Insurance DePaul Agency
Empowered Zone

Fitzpatrick Container Company

Brian and Sonja Haggert
Harleysville Rental
John Gambino RE/MAX Blue Bell
North Penn Gulf
North Wales Water Authority
PNC Bank
Rotary Club of Harleysville

Jerry and Pat Younce

(Want to see your name on this list? Talk with Tina at 610-277-1860, ext. 108 or send her an email at treynolds@laurel-house.org.)

In the meantime, register online today. You can even create your own Laurel House 5K webpage to solicit pledges from family, friends and co-workers and help us to raise our goal of $25,000 ...

And to dash away domestic violence.

Stories from the Shelter: Making a Difference, One Pencil at a Time

2009-08-21T10:04:00.000-04:00

When we opened the two boxes, we discovered they were filled to the brim with brand new school supplies. It was a donation - a very generous donation - sent to Laurel House last week from the employees of Horsham, PA based Catalyst360 (formerly The Hartford).

Notebooks, crayons, pencils, and glue sticks were piled on the conference room table. Moms, all of whom are currently living in our shelter, transitional housing program, or clients of our community counseling program, came by to select the necessary items to send their kids back to school.

The kids' eyes lit up - from gratitude, yes, but also because the Catalyst360 donation was filled with name-brand stuff. Crayolas. Elmers. The stuff of childhood, and the stuff that makes a child living in a domestic violence shelter fit in just a little bit more with his or her peers.

While the kids' eyes were lighting up, one mom's eyes started filling with tears.

"I didn't know how I was going to afford school supplies this year," she confessed.

Even though Back-to-School Sales are abundant, funds to buy needed clothing, backpacks, and - yes, even two notebooks at 2 for $1.00 can present a hardship for families in crisis. This can be difficult to fathom, difficult to imagine for those of us for whom buying a box of crayons or two notebooks is almost an after-thought. With the current economic climate, more and more Laurel House families in our counseling programs and housing programs are feeling the pinch.

We are feeling so grateful today to the kind people at Catalyst360, and other community groups and businesses, for helping out our families with their school supplies. If you'd like to help out too, consider making a monetary donation to help provide nutritious breakfasts for kids as they go off to school, clothes for the rest of the school year (they'll likely grow!) or contribute to our Family Fund which will directly help families throughout the year with unexpected expenses.

We thank you, for helping the kids of Laurel House step forward towards success in this new school year.

posted by Melissa Firman, Director of Development and PR, Laurel House

Beachcomber Swim Club Provides End of Summer Gift to Laurel House

2009-08-18T10:15:00.001-04:00

Within a few minutes of Laurel House sits a summer's oasis, with acres of swimming and shuffleboard, playgrounds and ping-pong. Since the mid-1950s, Beachcomber Swim Club in Blue Bell, PA has been part of the community, providing families with the chance to relax, grow, and enjoy the company of others.

Recently, according to a note that we recently received from Beachcomber's board, the facilities were sold, debts paid, and remaining assets distributed to charities - Laurel House among them. We were incredibly delighted (and surprised!) to recently receive a generous gift of $3,250 from the Beachcomber board and members.

In keeping with the spirit of families who started Beachcomber on behalf of others, Laurel House plans to use this generous gift to help families affected by domestic violence. The funds will be used in support of the children's program, to help continue counseling services, and to provide families in Laurel House's shelter and transitional housing programs with access to fun recreational activities, such as baseball games and trips to the Zoo.

Summer is ending, and so is one chapter in the lives of those connected with Beachcomber Swim Club. For the families at Laurel House, however, this gift from Beachcomber at the end of the summer comes with the promise of new beginnings in a new season.

Many thanks to our friends at Beachcomber Swim Club for selecting Laurel House as a recipient of this gift. On behalf of our families, we are most grateful.

New Support Groups for Survivors of Abuse

2009-08-06T13:10:00.002-04:00

Has your partner or ex-partner ever acted jealous ... tried to keep you away from family and friends ... hit or hurt you ... put you down or called you names?

Laurel House can help.

Support groups are now being offered for women who are currently experiencing or have experienced this type of abuse and want to have their voices heard and understood ... learn about the dynamics of abuse ... build trusting relationships ... connect with other women.

Support groups meet on Monday evenings in both the Norristown and North Wales, PA areas. A new support group will meet, beginning in September, on Tuesday evenings in Collegeville, PA.

Laurel House also offers individual domestic violence counseling for both men and women who have been victimized by their partners. Counselors are master's level clinical social work and counseling psychology interns, supervised by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Laurel House's counseling services and support groups are confidential and free of charge.

For more information, call 610-277-1860, ext. 118 for times and location details. Or, just leave a comment on this post and we'll see that it gets to our support group coordinator right away.

Golfers with Generous Hearts Raise Funds "Fore" Laurel House Families

2009-08-03T13:20:00.000-04:00

Women golfers from Overbrook Golf Club in Villanova, PA and St. Davids Golf Club in Wayne, PA joined together on Wednesday, July 8 for a special interclub outing to raise funds "fore" families at Laurel House. The tournament was coordinated by Overbrook members Jackie O'Connor and Ginny Bullock.

Jackie captured the spirit of the day and camaraderie of the golfers in a post-event email she sent to Laurel House.

"It was a truly successful event--beautiful weather, great golf and generous hearts from two clubs united in a way that was unusual for an interclub event," wrote Jackie. "[W]e decided to host a "green" theme which ...evolved into using Kermit the Frog. His famous words, "it's not easy being green" was about knowing who you are. His message was people are good and want to do their best and no matter how or why we might be different from anybody else, we should learn to love who we are and be proud of it. So, Ginny and I decided to reach out in the spirit of that love to support the battered women of Laurel House and their children who are victims of domestic violence."

The 36 golfers participating in the event donated more than $400 in cash and gift cards for the families at Laurel House. In addition, they delivered a van full of towels, bedding, clothing, food, and other items.

"I think if you ask the women who participated, the caddies and even the lunch staff--they will say it was such a great day to see how a small group of women can make such a difference no matter how different we are or what club we belong to," Jackie concluded in her e-mail. "On that day we were one club--FORE others!!"

On behalf of the families in our shelter and transitional housing programs, Laurel House extends many, many thanks to everyone from Overbrook Golf Club and St. David's Golf Club for your support!

Gifts from the Heart

2009-07-23T12:38:00.000-04:00

If you've been to a wedding recently, perhaps you've noticed one of the newest trends.

As this recent article in The Philadelphia Inquirer mentions, more and more couples are skipping the trinkets and tchotchkes for guests. In its place is a distinctive card announcing that a charitable donation has been made in lieu of a favor.

Laurel House's Wedding Favor program has been attracting increased interest from several couples wishing to share their special day with a special gift.

Part of the Wedding Favor program's appeal, says Beth Sturman, Laurel House's executive director, is that the organization works closely with its donors to make something unique.

"We customize each one, so they are all different," she explained. "We can do something on an ivory background with charcoal border and print. We have had requests for cards, which can be laid flat on each plate or little scrolls, which can be rolled up and tied with appropriate color ribbon."

Table tent cards are also an idea to consider, or a framed card for each table. "We can also provide a few extra in case you need them for the gift or entrance table," Sturman added.

The newlyweds' wedding favor donation (usually $2 or $5 per guest) to Laurel House helps to continue the programs for people affected by domestic violence. Some brides and grooms have designated their gifts to specific program areas at Laurel House. Donations have been received for the shelter, for the Laurel House Family Fund, and for counseling services to help people rebuild their lives after abuse.

"A wedding is a happy time, a celebration of new life," says Sturman. "What better way to recognize that and the people we love by giving the possibility of a new life to someone in need?"

For more information about Laurel House's Wedding Favor program, call 610-277-1860 or email us at development AT laurel-house DOT org.

Laurel House and Main Line Health to Present "Addressing Domestic Violence in the Health Care Setting"

2009-07-16T10:08:00.001-04:00

Laurel House, in partnership with Lankenau Hospital and Main Line Health, announces its upcoming workshop, "Addressing Domestic Violence in the Health Care Setting."

Date:
Friday, October 16, 2009

Time:
Sign in and breakfast 8:30 AM
Workshop 9AM-3:30 PM

Location:
Lankenau Hospital
100 Lancaster Avenue
Wynnewood, PA 19096
Annenberg Conference Center

Who Should Attend:
This program is open to all health care, human service and law enforcement personnel who have direct contact with domestic violence and sexual assault victims within the State of Pennsylvania.

Why:
Health care providers are often the first people outside the home to see the injuries caused by domestic violence. Because more than half of all victims are sexually assaulted, we will address the new minimal forensic examination when rape is disclosed.

This information-packed workshop will provide tools to appropriately assess a domestic violence situation in only two minutes. By the end of the session participants will:

- Have a better understanding of the dynamics of victims and abusers
- Be better able to identify victims in a health care setting
- Learn thorough and rapid assessment techniques
- Guideline for evaluation of sexual assault; referrals for children
- Be given resource and referral information

Cost: $50

Presenters

Jan Biresch, Medical Advocate for Laurel House, will be presenting with other colleagues from throughout the community, including the PA Coalition Against Rape, Victim Services of Montgomery County, a sexual assault nurse examiner from Abington Memorial Hospital, and Mission Kids, a new nonprofit created by the collaborative effort of the Montgomery County District Attorney, the Police Chiefs of Montgomery County, and the Montgomery County Office of Children and Youth to help ease the criminal justice process for abused children in Montgomery County.

Continuing Education Credits Available

“This continuing nursing education activity was approved by the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.”
There will be 5 Contact Hours of nursing credits offered for those completing the entire program and responding to the evaluation sheet.
“There will be case manager credits given by CCMC.”
“This conference is approved for a maximum of 5 clock hours of credit issued by the PA Social Work Board via approval #SWCE091423

Click here to access the Online Registration form. (Registration will not be accepted at the door.)

For additional information, contact Jan Biresch at 610-277-1860, ext. 106.

You Can Tell Us. We Can Help.

2009-07-07T09:50:00.000-04:00

Let's start by giving the number for Laurel House's domestic violence hotline.

It's 800-642-3150. Someone is available 24/7 to speak with you, confidentially. And free of charge.

You might think that the hotline is for people in true crisis situations - and it is. But it is much more.

Perhaps there was an incident over the holiday weekend or an ongoing problem in your relationship that makes you feel a little uneasy.

Maybe you noticed something that didn't seem right in a relationship with a loved one and his or her significant other.

Maybe you're wondering whether these behaviors are the signs of domestic violence.

Maybe you've been concerned for awhile.

You can tell us. We can help.

800-642-3150.

At Laurel House, Every Day is Someone's Independence Day

2009-07-02T09:53:00.011-04:00

At Laurel House, every day is someone's personal Independence Day.

Every day, we're helping people affected by domestic violence move towards independence and a life free from abuse.

We're able to do this because of the support from caring people like you which allows us to keep our shelter, hotline, and counseling programs available to anyone who needs us.

Now that is something worth celebrating.

For everyone who has bravely taken the courageous steps towards freedom from abuse and those of you still on this journey, you're wished the happiest of Independence Days.

Farrah Fawcett's Role of (Many) Lifetimes

2009-06-26T11:46:00.008-04:00

With the passing of Farrah Fawcett yesterday, it's easy to remember her for the 70s icon that she undoubtedly was. But it is her later work, first in the play Extremities and the 1984 groundbreaking movie The Burning Bed that is significant.

Her portrayals of women affected by violence and domestic abuse allowed others to become educated and aware of the signs of domestic violence.

This was in a time when domestic violence was talked about in a whisper, if at all. The Burning Bed was a controversial movie for the heavy issues contained within.

It was a role that many other actresses might not have felt brave enough to take on, but which Farrah did. And by making a contribution to erase the stigma of rape and domestic abuse, she became a champion for women whose voices were silent. Finally, they were beginning to be heard.

They were heard on the hotlines, and The Burning Bed was reportedly the first such movie to include a toll-free domestic violence hotline at the closing credits, that of the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which continues to be available for people in crisis at 800-799-SAFE. Farrah later became a board member of NDVH, and identified with the issue of domestic abuse.

There's no way to measure how many women Farrah touched by her portrayal of a battered wife. But if she saved only one life, or inspired only one woman to seek help and find her way out, then Farrah becomes more iconic in a way that deserves our remembrance, honor and gratitude.

Souderton Area High School Students Raise $2,000 for Laurel House

2009-06-17T12:44:00.005-04:00

For their senior project at Souderton Area High School, Anna Vo and Alanna Messner decided to have fun while raising money for Laurel House at the same time. The two friends organized a Charity Fashion Show that raised more than $2,000 for Laurel House's anti-domestic violence programs and services.

Anna and Alanna, you are an example to young women in your community. Thank you for dedicating your time and talents to increasing awareness and education about domestic abuse and teen dating violence. You're an inspiration to us all!

In case you missed the original article, take a moment to read the story below by Bob Keeler, Staff Writer for the Souderton Independent.

By Bob Keeler, Staff Writer

Everybody knows times are tough, but two Souderton Area High School juniors working on a charity fundraiser for their senior project say that hasn’t stopped donations from businesses and people willing to help out.

“We’ve been really excited with the support we got from the community,” said Alanna Messner, of Franconia, who with Thuytien “Anna” Vo, of Harleysville, is putting on a fashion show and concert 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 29 at the Indian Valley Boys & Girls Club on Washington Avenue in Souderton.

Proceeds will benefit the anti-domestic violence and shelter programs of Laurel House.

“We picked Laurel House because as young, teenage girls, we can kind of relate to the growing problem of domestic violence in our community,” Messner said. “And it’s a local event, which I think is pretty cool because it’s giving back to pretty much just our community.”

The theme for the fashion show will be spring fling.

“A bunch of the clothing that the models will be wearing will be bridal gowns or bridesmaid’s dresses, formal attire, and the males would be wearing tuxedos,” Vo said.“Plus, we’ll have a lot of casual stuff, just kind of trendy new things for the summer,” Messner said.

Both students are building onto past experiences in putting together their senior project.

Connections made in those experiences are also helping bring in donations and volunteer help.

“I’m familiar with a lot of the bridal places because I help run the fashion show for the high school,” Vo said.

The fashion show, in which Vo was both a model and an events planner this year, is held annually at the school to show prom-wear styles.

Messner, who has more extensive modeling experience, also appeared in a music video by Rivers Monroe, which will be performing at the fundraiser.

Rivers Monroe videos, including the one in which Messner portrayed the female lead in a relationship that was ending, as well as other information about the group, can be seen at www.myspace.com/RiversMonroe.

“In addition to the concert, we also have a tattoo artist. We have a lot of professional models coming in,” Messner said. “We have food that was donated by local pizzerias.”

“It’s just a fun family night out,” Vo said.

Other students from the high school have also volunteered to help out. The fundraiser also will include a raffle and silent auction.

Along with doing the show as a senior project, Messner expects to use it for an entrance project to her subsequent educational step after next year’s graduation from Souderton. She plans to study international trade and marketing for the fashion industry at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.

Vo, who plans to major in biology at the University of Pittsburgh, might not be directly using the events planning experience in that, but she also has another reason for choosing to do the fundraiser as her senior project.

“I do what I can to give back to the community,” Vo said.

Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and $3 for children younger than 12. Tickets will be available at the door, but purchasing in advance will help in the planning. Tickets or information are available by e-mailing charityfashionconcert@yahoo.com or by calling 215-880-2775.

The two students have been working hard on the project since January, Messner said.

People who know about Laurel House and its programs have been especially supportive.

“I feel like a lot of people that know the organization are more than willing to help,” Messner said.

In addition to raising money for the organization, the fashion show and concert can help bring awareness about the Laurel House programs, she said.

The successful work already done to prepare for an event of this size is inspiring, Messner said, but there’s still work to be done in the final month to make sure people know about and come out to the show.

“We’re just working right now on getting it promoted and getting the word out there because, of course, the more people we have, the more of a success it’ll be, and the more money that’ll be raised,” Messner said.

See photos from the event here.

Volunteer Needed for Laurel House's "Men Against Domestic Violence Campaign"

2009-06-16T10:55:00.002-04:00

Laurel House is currently seeking a male volunteer to help us to create and develop a “Men Against Domestic Violence Campaign”. Volunteers will help develop and put into practice ways to raise public awareness about domestic violence. Meetings will be about once a month. Volunteers hours are flexible and can vary based on your availability.

For more information contact Tina Reynolds at treynolds@laurel-house.org.

Need a Father's Day Gift? Give the Gift of a Safe Tomorrow

2009-06-16T10:29:00.006-04:00

If you've ever owned an older home (or bought a "fixer-upper" or "handyman's special") you know there's always a project or two waiting to be done ... and then a few more after that.

Well, Laurel House's shelter is a 9-bedroom residential home built before 1900. There's a kitchen, living room and common areas, office space, a playroom for the kids, and a quiet space where kids do homework and read. Out back, we have a small garden and playground.

Each year, more than 400 people live with us. And as you might imagine, the maintenance needs are considerable. Much of the work is done by staff and volunteers, but you can help. There are constant needs for maintenance supplies and for those larger jobs, a few hours from a professional Mr. or Ms. Fix-It.

You can make a gift in honor or in memory of someone special this Father's Day. Simply visit our secure online donation page here, drop us an email at mfirman@laurel-house.org, or call our offices at 610-277-1860. If you'd like, you can learn a little more about our shelter and transitional housing programs here.

We thank you for helping to keep Laurel House safe ... and for helping more than 400 families have a safe haven from abuse while they rebuild their lives.

Laurel House Announces 2009 Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Poster Contest for Montgomery County, PA High School Students

2009-06-04T12:21:00.007-04:00

High school students in Montgomery County, PA are invited to participate in the 2009 Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Poster Contest. This year's theme is “Dating Violence and the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline.” Entries are due October 1, 2009.

1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will receive monetary prizes. The 1st place winner's poster will be used as the Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention poster for Montgomery County schools from October 2009 to October 2010. All winning posters will be placed on Laurel House's website.

Official Contest Rules and Registration Form can be found here, or by pasting http://www.laurel-house.org/index.php?pr=Poster_Contest in your browser. All posters must have a completed Registration Form on the back of their entry.

For questions or more information, contact Tommie Wilkins, Director of Domestic Violence Training and Education at Laurel House, twilkins@laurel-house.org or at 610-277-1680

Sponsoring organizations include:
Upper Perkiomen Domestic Violence Task Force
Montgomery County Teen Parent Task Force
North Penn Community Action Team
Domestic Violence Legal Network,
Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library
Women's Center of Montgomery County
Victim Services Center of Montgomery County
Tri-County Community Network
Laurel House

For questions or more information, contact Tommie Wilkins, Director of Domestic Violence Training and Education at Laurel House, twilkins@laurel-house.org or at 610-277-1860, ext. 100.

Two Nights of Texas Roadhouse for Laurel House

2009-06-01T15:13:00.000-04:00

Our friends at the Texas Roadhouse (in Royersford, PA) will be supporting Laurel House by hosting two Fundraiser Nights next week.

Dates: Tuesday, June 9 and Wednesday, June 10

Times: 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. (both nights)

Where: Texas Roadhouse, 70 Buckwalter Road, Royersford, PA

Call ahead seating: 610-948-4006

To-go orders and gift card sales are also included.

Very Important: Guests must have a copy of the blue flyer below (simply print it out) for a percentage of your check to be donated to Laurel House.

Volunteer Meeting Scheduled for June 3

2009-05-29T14:08:00.002-04:00

Want to learn more about the various volunteer opportunities at Laurel House? Interested in getting to know other Laurel House volunteers? Then RSVP today for the next All-Volunteer Meeting on Wednesday, June 3, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Laurel House's Community Outreach Office at 605 Swede Street in Norristown. Light refreshments will be served.

Topics to be covered include an overview of the new Community Safe Haven Program. The Empty Place at the Table exhibit will also be discussed and displayed.

Volunteers who attended the first meeting (held quarterly) said it was very informative and enjoyable.

"We had such a great response," said Tina Reynolds, volunteer coordinator. "It was a good opportunity for volunteers to meet one another and find out about the latest happenings in each of Laurel House's programs."

Sign up to attend the June 3 meeting by calling Tina at 610-277-1860, ext. 108 or emailing her at treynolds@laurel-house.org.

Lilly Pulitzer Hosts An Evening of Shopping and Sharing for Laurel House

2009-05-27T10:42:00.000-04:00

In case the invitation is a little hard to read, here are the details.

Lilly Pulitzer, located in King of Prussia Plaza, is planning a special evening of shopping and sharing. Spring has sprung and summer is right around the corner, so now is the perfect opportunity to stock up on all things Lilly while supporting Laurel House at the same time.

Thursday, June 4, 2009

5 - 8 p.m.

Lilly Pulitzer, King of Prussia Plaza

Sip wine, mingle, and shop!

10% of all sales that night will be donated back to Laurel House.

To RSVP, call 610-265-7607. We look forward to seeing you there!

TelecomPioneers Donate Funds to Enhance Laurel House's Technology Capabilities

2009-05-19T10:19:00.001-04:00

Members of the Verizon TelecomPioneers Liberty Bell Chapter presented Laurel House with a $10,000 grant today. This generous contribution, made possible through the hard work of Chapter President Bernadette Allen (pictured third from left) and other members, will support Laurel House's technology needs, especially in regards to the infrastructure components.

"Each of our programs for people affected by domestic abuse depends on having safe and secure technology systems and will benefit directly from this generous grant in several ways," explained Melissa Firman, Director of Development and Public Relations (pictured fourth from left).

Funds will be used to obtain and install a new, dedicated server to enable counselors and advocates for people in Laurel House’s shelter to provide more efficient services. Program managers who spend considerable time with community groups will be able to provide better services through upgraded laptops and technology. Finally, residents in Laurel House’s transitional housing program will have increased access to refurbished computers to learn about career opportunities and community resources.

Many thanks to the Verizon TelecomPioneers for this generous grant!

Special Thanks to Corner Bakery

2009-05-14T13:29:00.001-04:00

Special thanks to our friends at the Corner Bakery Cafe in King of Prussia, PA for generously providing a catered lunch to Laurel House today.

Clients, residents, volunteers, and staff all enjoyed a delicious variety of freshly-made Corner Bakery sandwiches, salads, and desserts. The contribution was part of the restaurant's "Catering to the Community" program, for which Laurel House was chosen as a deserving recipient.

"We're appreciative to businesses like the Corner Bakery for caring about the families at Laurel House, as well as our dedicated staff and volunteers who are available 24 hours a day to help those who need a safe haven from domestic abuse," said Beth Sturman, Executive Director of Laurel House.

Many thanks to everyone at the Corner Bakery for your generous support!

Strike Out Domestic Violence at the Laurel House Bowl-a-Thon

2009-05-13T16:05:00.001-04:00

Strike Out Domestic Violence by participating in Laurel House's annual Bowl-a-Thon. Bring your co-workers and your family (we'll have bumper lanes for the little ones) to enjoy a night out for a great cause.

Date: Friday, May 29, 2009
Time: 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Where: Facenda-Whitaker Lanes, Norristown

Cost: $25 per person ($15 for children ages 10 and under)
Includes games, shoes, and refreshments

For information, contact Patty at 610-277-1860 or via email at pgoloff AT laurel-house DOT org.

Welcome to the Laurel House Blog!

2009-05-13T16:04:00.000-04:00

Welcome ... and thanks for stopping by Laurel House's new blog! We're excited about this new way of communicating with you.

Because of you, we're able to provide shelter, hotline support, counseling, transitional housing, medical advocacy, and legal services to more than 1,500 people each year who turn to us for help.

Thank you for your support!