Karate Kids at the Nest

Since 2007, Help End Abuse for Life (HEAL) and The Nest have strived to provide top-notch services to victims and survivors of domestic violence. Despite good intentions and dedication, unfortunately, the shelter cannot offer everything residents need or want. It is in those unfulfilled hopes that volunteers and donors emerge…and shine. Exercise is well-known for its ability to aid mental …

HEAL “Grows” TREE Program for Residents of Nest

The leaders of Help End Abuse for Life and The Nest pride themselves not only on the mission of their organization, but also on its effective implementation. One of the most powerful services provided at The Nest are the shelter’s educational groups, which provide classroom lessons in a support group setting that are aimed at shedding light on issues that …

HEAL Launches Advocacy in Corrections Program

The board of directors of Help End Abuse for Life (HEAL) and The Nest finalized a three-year Strategic Plan at the turn of the organization’s fiscal year. One of the most exciting goals in the plan directs a new, innovative outreach program. Corina Montoya, a seasoned resident advocate at The Nest, was selected to develop the prison outreach program from …

Local Man Honored by State Coalition for Work at Nest

Carl Parsons was one of five notable volunteers honored at this year’s Community Heroes award ceremony, hosted in Farmington by the New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence.  Parsons was nominated by Help End Abuse for Life (HEAL).  The Community Heroes award is aimed at recognizing individuals and groups who have shown support above and beyond the call of duty at …

Elks Embrace Sweet Charity

A few months ago, the members of the Ruidoso chapter of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks began volunteering with Sweet Charity, the resale boutique run by Help End Abuse for Life (HEAL) to support The Nest. One dozen Elks signed up to help pick up large donations when donors cannot arrange transportation on their own. Since then, the …

Why Were Those Men Walking in High Heels?

 Attendees of Ruidoso’s Aspenfest Parade were thrilled, amused and excited by one float in particular, the float that was put together by a team of progressive  volunteers at  Help End Abuse for Life (HEAL) and The Nest. The float was unique in many ways.   It contained a large, six-foot red stiletto surrounded by men strutting the streets of midtown in …

The Nest Finds A Link

The link between domestic violence and animal abuse has long been suspected, but research has now proven how deep the connection runs. In response, the National Link Coalition was formed. The Coalition is building on strong foundational work built by the Humane Society, which runs a research and education program called First Strike: The Violence Connection. It’s studies have focused …

Local Artists Offer Classes at The Nest

Art surrounds and encompasses our spirits. Where there is darkness, beauty, doubt, mystery or a mix of each, humans create art. On many occasions, art helps people who have seen trauma and misfortune in the healing process. It allows them a target for their energies, a channel to funnel their emotions and the promise of beauty from dedication. Art is …

Men Taking a Walk

Since 1987, October has been recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Every year, across the country, shelter workers and advocates unite with survivors and supporters to discuss progress and issues surrounding domestic violence, remember those whose lives have been lost and celebrate the spirit of survivors. Here in Lincoln County, Help End Abuse for Life (HEAL), the mother organization of …