For nearly 40 years, victims and advocates across the United States have observed Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) each October. DVAM is a time to spark conversations, raise awareness, honor victims and survivors, and advocate for the funding and policy solutions that can make a difference.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization:

  • 34% of women and 17% of men in the U.S. have reported contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by a partner.
  • 48.4% of women and 48.8% of men in the U.S. have reported psychological aggression by a partner.
  • 95 % of perpetrators who physically abuse their intimate partners also psychologically abuse them.

These rates are often higher—and funding and support are often scarce—for marginalized victims, including victims of color, the LGBTQ+ community, those with disabilities, and immigrants.

In observance of DVAM, ASPEN will be hosting a variety of events and activities to involve the community in supporting survivors. The first of these is Raise the Bar bystander intervention training for bar managers and staff on Thursday, October 15th from 9 to 11 am at The Grand in Big Timber. Learn the role alcohol plays in sexual violence and how to spot signs and safely intervene. Bar and restaurant managers, bartenders and food and beverage staff will find out what part their industry can play in prevention. The event is open to the public. To RSVP, contact emily@aspenmt.org by Friday, October 9th. 

ASPEN’s newly created Documentary Club will screen films (in person and on your own) and then engage in constructive conversations with community members focused on how tech and media affect relationships.  The next event is Wednesday, October 21 at 5:30 pm at the Livingston-Park County Public Library. The event will focus on Toy Story 5. We welcome kids and encourage them to dress as their favorite toy or character. Dinner and activities will be provided (for those who RSVP). For assistance with renting or streaming the film beforehand, or to RSVP, please contact emily@asepnmt.org.  For a list of upcoming Club events throughout the school year, visit:  https://www.aspenmt.org/events

Join us for a FREE Lunch and Learn on October 27th from 12 to 1 pm in the Park County Building Community Room to gain a better understanding of what survivors may experience during a forensic medical exam.  Emily Manga, MSN, RN, AFN-C, SANE-A,SANE-P, DVFN-C IVSE-C and Forensic Nursing Care Coordinator for Bozeman Health will share her expertise about what compassionate, effective care looks like and the role of a forensic nurse. A no-cost lunch will be provided for a suggested donation of $5/per person. For questions, email info@aspenmt.org.  

Lastly, ASPEN encourages community members to participate in its 10th Annual Quilt Raffle. Funds raised will go directly to assist survivors and victims. Tickets can be purchased at ASPEN’s office at 225 S. Main Street in Livingston or online at https://www.aspenmt.org/quilt-raffle.  Special thanks to Clare Lemke who, for nine years, has been providing beautiful handmade quilts for this event. 

ASPEN’s mission is to provide direct support services for victims/survivors of human trafficking and domestic and sexual violence and help them create safe, healthy lives for themselves and their families.  ASPEN also provides educational and awareness activities which foster prevention. For questions regarding any of these events and activities please call ASPEN at 406-222-5902 or email info@aspenmt.org.

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