Since the organization’s beginnings, Help End Abuse for Life (HEAL) & the Nest have seen a rich history of community support. The organization is blessed to be in Lincoln County not only for its ability to help women and children in a community deeply affected by domestic violence, but also for its’ strong and dedicated force of volunteers and community service organizations, One of the more active organizations in Ruidoso is the local branch of Altrusa International, Inc.
Altrusans have a long history of supporting HEAL since its founding. The group quickly latched on to its mission and played an active role in opening the doors to the Nest. In coordination with HEAL’s “Adopt a Room” project at the shelter, one of the club’s first generous deeds was raising enough money to furnish a bedroom. In true community spirit, several members of the club joined together to write a grant application to the Altrusa International Foundation. The grant was approved for $1,000, which the club matched. On April 6, 2007, the club wrote a $2,000 check and the ongoing relationship began. To this day, the room bears the Altrusa name so that all its residents can continue to feel the warmth and love of several lovely ladies, even years later.
Since October 2007, Altrusa of Ruidoso has donated $100 per month to HEAL and the Nest. Recently, the club approved a 2013-2014 budget that increased the monthly donation to $150. “We are very excited about the excellent work the Nest does and want to help in our small way,” said club treasurer, Judy Griffin.
In January 2010, the club sponsored a table at the Heroes with Heart awards gala, HEAL’s annual community celebration of those who go above and beyond the call of duty in helping others. Just two years later, Altrusa of Ruidoso was nominated and named as one of the winners at the 2012 Heroes with Heart awards. Earlier this year, long-time supporter of the Nest, writer, chef and honorary Altrusan, Perry Champion, posthumously received a 2013 Heroes with Heart award.
“Altrusa’s support of the Nest has been particularly important because of its subtext. By choosing to make such a strong commitment to the Nest, the club sends the residents of the shelter a very clear, strong message that they are loved, their experiences have validity, they will always have support within our community, and that their lives matter deeply to all of us,” said club secretary Michael Hoppal. “I think a necessary part of supporting survivors is saying, ‘I care about you,’ enough to drown out the isolation many of these women face. They need a community. We do what we can to provide that.” Hoppal also works at HEAL as a staff writer.
The sheltering model at the Nest is grounded in the idea survivors can effect change in their lives with adequate support and encouragement from the community. According to HEAL Board President Mark Chino, “Altrusans have come together over the years to build our program of hope and change for survivors. With their support, we have jointly have helped many women and children who have resided at the Nest to transition into their new lives free of abuse. We deeply appreciate their commitment and support.”
For more information about Altrusa of Ruidoso, go to altrusaruidoso.com, or join the club at its 3rd annual Vino Bingo night on September 12 at Sanctuary on the River.
Pictured are Altrusans Jackie Wilson (left) and Mary Jane Thomas (right) with Carrol Champion, accepting the 2013 HWH award on behalf of Perry.
