Philanthropy Friday: CHOICES

We will not see an end to domestic violence until there is a community consensus that violence in the home is unacceptable. Domestic violence is an issue that can affect a person no matter their background or culture. To enter a shelter and see a group of women and their children bond that would otherwise have nothing in common shows there is hope for everyone.

CHOICES for Victims of Domestic Violence, Inc., formerly Phoenix House, began service to the central Ohio community in October 1977. It was formed as a collaboration between a community task force studying women’s needs in Columbus, a number of people working in the human services field and a support group for single mothers whose members were attempting to shelter women in their homes.

CHOICES serves individuals and families who are victims and survivors of domestic violence/intimate partner violence. They are generally female adults, as well as their minor children although there are male victims who seek out their services as well. CHOICES also offers assistance to family members and friends of those who are experiencing domestic violence. They also use their organization to educate the general community about domestic violence and public policy efforts.

Programs and Services

CHOICES is one of the most comprehensive programs in the state offering a wide range of services for victims and survivors of domestic violence. Services include:

• 24 hour crisis information and referral hotline
• Temporary shelter with case management and children’s programming components
• Therapeutic counseling
• Legal and community advocacy
• Support groups
• Second responder services
• Programming for incarcerated women
• Education for businesses, professionals, civic groups and the general community.

Get Involved

CHOICES offers a variety of ways for you or your organization to get involved in their mission to interrupt the cycle of domestic violence by responding to those in need, educating the community, and advocating for social change.

CHOICES always welcomes volunteers. They conduct volunteer training twice a year to accommodate the large number of interested individuals. Individuals can call the administrative office with their contact information at 614.224.7200 and they will send you an application and a description of the process. Volunteer opportunities range from a shelter assistant or hotline assistant, to child-care worker or support group facilitator. Volunteer opportunities change according to their needs. CHOICES also encourages community members to contact their legislators about pending domestic violence legislation at the state and federal levels.

October 28th is the Peacemaker Awards Luncheon featuring photojournalist, Donna Ferrato. 4. The Peacemaker Awards Luncheon addresses the widespread effects of domestic violence and recognizes individuals who make positive strides to respond, educate, and advocate for change. CHOICES is recruiting table captains and soliciting corporate sponsors. For reservations or sponsorship opportunities, please call (614) 224-7200.

How To Get Help

If you are someone you care about is in an abusive relationship CHOICES has information on their website that can help. For information on identifying domestic violence, helping yourself or a loved one, safety planning and resources visit their website. You can also call the Crisis & Information line at 614.224.4663.

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For more information about Choices visit their website.

Philanthropy Friday is a feature article by Michele Savoldi that will highlight a Columbus area non-profit organization every other week. . For more nonprofit information follow Michele on Twitter at @cbusimpressions and @inkindconnect.