The staff at the Nest Domestic Violence Shelter is proud to have hosted a Tour & Tea for the Ruidoso Federated Woman’s Club during October, national domestic violence awareness month. The Club has been an avid supporter of the Nest since its opening in 2007.
Eight members of the Club attended the private event. HEAL Executive Director Coleen Widell conducted the tour, with assistance from staff members Susanne Francis, Carrie Calkins, Terry Thompson and Corina Montoya. The women walked throughout the shelter and in the courtyard, children’s playground and garden. They heard stories of survivors whose lives changed in shelter. Many of the members were moved by the hand prints wall in the shelter, a place where residents – women, children and pets – document their journey to safety, which started at the Nest. Many questions were asked and answered by staff members and an occasional resident.
After the tour, the Club members were treated to homemade pie and coffee in the kitchen and living room at the Nest. The Club later presented HEAL with a $500 check to support the operations of the shelter.
According to Club President Sue Koepp, “The General Federation of Women’s Clubs 2012-2014 “Signature Project” is Domestic Violence Awareness & Prevention. The NEST positively affects the lives of domestic violence victims and their families and we are proud to have supported their work from our fundraising efforts. This “Tea & Tour” allowed us to not only see this remarkable facility but to become informed of their total commitment to the survival of the victims through constructive life-giving solutions for their future.”
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs also offers an education scholarship for survivors of domestic violence called “GFWC Success for Survivors.” Right after the Tour & Tea, Carrie Calkins gave the scholarship application to a prior resident, who is trying to complete her college degree but need a financial hand. Widell said, “The process of recovery from domestic violence is quite long and arduous. Having an education is key to being able to become self-sufficient, to be able to provide for yourself and your children. The Success for Survivors scholarship will help bring much needed opportunity to these women as they rebuild their lives.”
Pictured are Women’s Club members Bobbie Dobbs, Dorothy Hill, Harry Hill, Joan Teague, Anndy Patterson, Sharon Grooms, Gladys Dendy, Sue Koepp with HEAL Executive Director Coleen Widell in the playground at the Nest.
