Domestic violence can take many forms. It may involve physical aggression, verbal abuse, emotional manipulation, forced sexual activity, or financial control. Often abuse is not physical, but any abuse is still part of an indication of power and control and could lead to more aggressive actions in the future. Violence in a relationship is not an isolated incident, but a pattern of behaviors designed to control another person.
Here are some things you should know:
1. You are not alone.
2. The abuse is not your fault.
3. You deserve to live in a safe environment.
4. There are resources to help.
5. Hope can happen here.
You are not responsible for, nor do you deserve, any abuse that you receive, no matter what the circumstances. If you are experiencing abuse in any form, you deserve the help and support of people who understand the reality of physical and emotional abuse.
Help is Available.
It may be very difficult to identify yourself as a battered woman, but it is an important first step. No one has the right to hit you, threaten you, or harm your children. Violence at home does not simply "go away". No amount of care in your housekeeping, child rearing, or personal habits will halt the violence. It is not your fault. If you feel trapped in an abusive relationship, call Peaceful Paths Crisis Line today at 352-377-8255 or 1-800-393-SAFE (7233). Become informed about your rights and talk to the people who can support your decisions.
Join the Chrome Divas in their motorcycle run to benefit Peaceful Paths on Saturday April 17, 2010. Visit them on the web at http://www.chromedivas.com/chapter/chapter.cfm?ID=284 for more information.
The Annual Guest Chef Cocktail Party is coming up on Thursday, April 8, from 6-8 pm at the Sweetwater Branch Inn, 625 East University Ave. Join us this year for food creations from local "chefs" - items will range from fancy hors d'oeuvres to decadent desserts, all provided by supporters of the cause! Enjoy music from Gosia and Ali, shop the silent auction for some unique gifts and treats, and sample wines and beers from Dionysus.
Tickets can be purchased by going to the fundraising tab on this site, or at the door the night of event.
This is a wonderful opportunity to support Peaceful Paths and the cause of ending domestic violence with a great night out!
Look for our ad in the Feb/March addition of HOME magazine!
This event Sponsored by:
Dr. Paul Schilling and the Community Cancer Center of North Central Florida
On the eve of the one year anniversary of the tragic fire at our offices, the staff and Board of Peaceful Paths would like to once again thank the Alachua, Bradford, and Union county communities for all your support. We perservered through your generosity, and we have come out stronger than ever. Keep watching for reconstruction updates and the Open House events in October. Thank you for everything!
The reconstruction is going smoothly and we are closer than ever to reaching our goal of $150,000. We can still use your help with raising money for various programs and rooms in the outreach facility, and with buying Bricks in the Peaceful Path. Watch for information about building tours starting soon and the grand opening events this October for all donors and the public.
Don't forget to drive by 2100 NW 53rd Ave for a sneak peak!
Peaceful Paths is on Facebook - join our cause and invite your friends to add our page as a cause. Check out frequent updates and pictures at www.facebook.com/PeacefulPaths
The new location of the Peaceful Paths Thrift Store is 1730 NW 53rd Ave across from the Home Depot. NEW Store Hours are Tuesday – Friday from 10-6, and Saturdays 10-2 beginning October 20, 2009. Donations are accepted Tues-Thurs, and furniture that cannot be dropped off can be picked up twice a month by calling Barbara at 352-264-0101
Department of Housing and Urban Development
Victims of Crime Act (VOCA)
Alachua County Community Agency Partnership Program
City of Gainesville, Block Grant Division
Women's Giving Circle of the Gainesville Community Foundation
Generous Community Donors
Member of the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence
