MONROE — October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. Green Haven Family Advocates, 1811 11th Street, Monroe, provides free and confidential services to individuals and families who are currently experiencing or have experienced domestic and family violence.
Now through the month of October, ‘Coffee for a Cause’ is taking place throughout Monroe. Now is the perfect time to meet a family member, best friend, or favorite work colleague for a cup of coffee. All proceeds go directly to Green Haven Family Advocates to assist them in providing necessary services to their clients. Participants are encouraged to pick up a score card and more information at any one of the participating locations: Chocolate Temptation, Full Moon Brew Bar, Perk’s Coffee, Beyond Crafty, Everest Nutrition, Paynes Family CoffeeHaus, Bullwinkles Coffee and More.
On average, Green Haven works with 500 unduplicated people each year. Those individuals are men, women, and children of all age-groups. Green Haven helps to provide community education for schools, churches, and other groups within the community.
“We accept donations of clothing and household items that we provide at no cost to clients who are fleeing a domestic violence situation,” shared Chandra Pelikan, Executive Director of Green Haven Family Advocates in Monroe. “Community donations and volunteer support are an important part of helping us provide services to those in need.”
Community members can support Green Haven in a variety of ways. Volunteers are always welcome to help provide coverage for the 24-hour crisis line, which is the first point of contact for those who are seeking help, support, and more information. People can also lend their services while volunteering during office hours, and with a variety of property and community projects. Those with outdoor skills are encouraged to volunteer to help with yard work and other landscaping projects. The Board of Directors are volunteers, and from time to time offer a place for those who would like to assist with making decisions.
The services provided by Green Haven are free to their clients. Funds are received through a variety of grants and other governmental funds.
“Our organization is primarily grant-funded through VOCA, the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF), and United Way of Green County,” Pelikan says.
There are several services offered to those who are experiencing, or who have experienced, domestic and family violence. Many legal options and choices are available through civil, family, and criminal courts. They do not practice or condone discrimination on the basis of race, color, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, marital status, military status, political belief, mental or physical handicap, or any other preference or personal characteristic, condition, or status.
A 24-hour crisis line is available 7-days a week. Green Haven has regular office hours, Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Friday appointments are available by appointment. The 24-hour crisis line is 608-325-7711. Their business line is 608-325-6489. To learn more log onto greenhaven4help.com.
