tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84768654246263828162024-03-08T11:13:50.424-08:00Dove, Inc.Dove is an organization that engages religious institutions, volunteers, and advocates seeking to coordinate efforts to address unmet needs and social injustices. These needs are met through coordinated programs focusing on domestic violence, homelessness, education, volunteer and community empowerment, and individual emergency need fulfillment.
Dove works for justice, equality, and understanding among all people.Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.comBlogger335125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-24643953580795480962024-03-04T11:59:00.000-08:002024-03-04T11:59:09.160-08:00A Woman of Dove's History<p> March is Women’s History Month and during this month I want to acknowledge a woman who assisted Ray Batman in molding Dove, Inc. Not only was she a founder and volunteer, but her passion, dedication, and drive were so vital to building the stellar foundation that the organization stands on today. She may have been tiny in stature, but her presence was vast.</p><p>She was eventually hired as the Program Director in 1974 and remained an active and avid supporter of Dove after retirement and up until her passing in 2014. Her “never take no for an answer” attitude assisted with building collaborations that are still matched today. </p><p>She was extremely instrumental in the organization of a multitude of community-related programs throughout the city of Decatur. This includes the Nationally Renowned Mother-to-Mother program, a programming concept that has been widely adopted across the country.</p><p>Sue’s presence still shines through those of us who have come along beside her. Her commitment to resolving the needs of the community continues to burn bright and continues to be passed along to those who have come after her. She is Dove’s history and will forever be remembered as “Mother Dove”. So, during this Women’s History Month, I want to express my gratitude to Marilyn Rose “Susie” Simcox.</p><p><br /></p><p>Darsonya Switzer, CEO</p><p><br /></p><p>Sue at the Dean Simcox Conference Room Dedication</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJXAQtkAwtb8iMA0c634rw9Q2DAcP983pFhYCqZp4IdfKvY5aLCJ-aC1tvYxDT0G3MiD-oUkWCUHGw0mZQ98MOVhVBlcsp_HTXuoTpWwPeMa-6Gzw_X9yYTPEN5mPOECSijVgJm335-o-qSl4Ul-9DQfXabAZU-WicrgR2Szxtst_QE0LdemRrR-UfjZc/s2576/100_4072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1932" data-original-width="2576" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJXAQtkAwtb8iMA0c634rw9Q2DAcP983pFhYCqZp4IdfKvY5aLCJ-aC1tvYxDT0G3MiD-oUkWCUHGw0mZQ98MOVhVBlcsp_HTXuoTpWwPeMa-6Gzw_X9yYTPEN5mPOECSijVgJm335-o-qSl4Ul-9DQfXabAZU-WicrgR2Szxtst_QE0LdemRrR-UfjZc/s320/100_4072.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Sue and Mrs. Cobb, they were Mother to Mother pairs for life<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7MBgxafuug7MPDzcc2SL5xPNFedu4UUktTTq_zkfW63lCUpEJ_9KwJ_lTOds2mH_YKlWdriRbxzb6HU_ZJjlPfYHcNvj2grqdtizhT5cABcGntRECAnIO9ATPS9R5a9DrXpoZNlK3psRx-KCV7U9aI2t6t2HYlb2SsJMTho_rPG95Jn-0TW4qeRJHvu0/s1776/sue%20mrs%20cobb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1176" data-original-width="1776" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7MBgxafuug7MPDzcc2SL5xPNFedu4UUktTTq_zkfW63lCUpEJ_9KwJ_lTOds2mH_YKlWdriRbxzb6HU_ZJjlPfYHcNvj2grqdtizhT5cABcGntRECAnIO9ATPS9R5a9DrXpoZNlK3psRx-KCV7U9aI2t6t2HYlb2SsJMTho_rPG95Jn-0TW4qeRJHvu0/s320/sue%20mrs%20cobb.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Susie in the early days, helping to get a child to Dove's preschool<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicP7KLW5ArwhUMO2agktNGBfJjY_SzfDr0wx7zUXpAiHuOi43FS2m1mnA8dv9SOe_b7kXg0DADe_AhrWy1auHBAxwX2XwT33Fw8TVQQhg03S9naqiVWoqRxOkrZRxTfdgQ95NuABPMKeZA_1bacn976fJhyphenhyphenhFA3IjVk43Dg9NRMG4nURIN2mqXRKIFDYY/s1462/sue%20preschool%2077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1006" data-original-width="1462" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicP7KLW5ArwhUMO2agktNGBfJjY_SzfDr0wx7zUXpAiHuOi43FS2m1mnA8dv9SOe_b7kXg0DADe_AhrWy1auHBAxwX2XwT33Fw8TVQQhg03S9naqiVWoqRxOkrZRxTfdgQ95NuABPMKeZA_1bacn976fJhyphenhyphenhFA3IjVk43Dg9NRMG4nURIN2mqXRKIFDYY/s320/sue%20preschool%2077.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-59889163717326586302024-02-05T11:27:00.000-08:002024-02-05T11:27:42.230-08:00 Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month! <p><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b> As most know, February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month! The entire month is dedicated to raising awareness about teens, and their dating relationships, and putting a stop to dating violence before it even starts. Dating violence is more common than people think, especially among teens & young adults. 1 in 3 U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from someone they’re in a relationship with before becoming adults.</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b>The theme this year is “Love Like That”. The “that” means what you are looking for in a relationship. We want our teens to know what is healthy and unhealthy before or when looking for a partner, and this is what we present in the local high schools we visit. We encourage everyone to wear orange this month or specifically on the 6th, orange shows solidarity and raises awareness about dating violence!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b>If you know someone who is experiencing or who has experienced teen dating violence, please give them resources to get help! Dove offers counseling for our teens- up to eight 90-minute sessions without parental consent. We even have a support group on Tuesday nights at 5:30 p.m., so you can talk about what is going on in a comfortable and confidential space. </b></span></p><p><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b> If you would like to know information about teen dating violence, you can visit loveisrespect.org!</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b>#TDVAM2024</b></span></p><p><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b>Danielle Cunningham, Education and Awareness Superviso</b></span>r</p>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-27001623827355590652023-06-14T13:37:00.001-07:002023-06-14T13:40:33.228-07:00Doing our part to make a difference.<p> With so much talk everywhere on issues of violence, once again a topic discussed at the CONO (Coalition Of Neighborhood Organizations) meeting this past month in wonder of how to stop violence from happening in our community. Let’s consider narrowed down, violence begins in neighborhoods, no matter where they are. Cities including Decatur, have Stop The Violence campaigns and rallies in order to take a stand and to bring positivity and hope which is so important! But I wonder, doesn’t the remedy lay within each one of us? We must not close our eyes or turn a deaf ear, right, and when we see something, yes, we must say something, but isn’t there more? Doesn’t there need to be hands reaching out to one another in solidarity and hope with a goal in mind like the future of our family, neighborhood and ultimately our world. It begins in a neighborhood, your neighborhood and mine. So, if you don’t already have an active neighborhood group in your area, will you consider starting one? If so, Dove has a pamphlet of information that can help. Please reach out and see how we can partner in this vital effort for our city and ultimately beyond, doing our part to make a difference.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><br />Neighborhood Services Program <br /><br />LeAnn Ellis, Coordinator</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 105%;"><o:p></o:p></p>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-88090172999600577772022-09-08T10:07:00.000-07:002022-09-08T10:07:07.864-07:00The winds of change are upon us<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: verdana;">As the summer fades away, the winds of change are upon
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The wildflowers are in bloom along
the roadways, the crops in the fields are changing colors and Mother Nature’s
green coat is beginning to fade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: verdana;">The onset
of the beautiful colors of fall can be spotted in some treetops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Although I am a lover of summer, the change
from summer to fall has always been exciting to me…. the cool, crisp evenings
and mornings and the hint of fog and haze on the horizon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was always one of the weird kids who looked
forward eagerly to the first day of school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The prospect of change and of hope for a great year ahead was
intoxicating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: verdana;">As an adult, I still love
this time of year.</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">The promise of new
beginnings makes it seem like a second New Years, a chance to complete some of
those goals that may have been left behind in the busyness of life. </span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: verdana;">If you, or someone you know, has been affected
in some way by domestic violence, this second New Year is an exciting time to
initiate change.</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">We are here to guide
you and to offer options and domestic violence education to enable you to move
past the issues of abuse that can linger and to build a more serene life.</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">We can be reached on our 24-hour crisis line
at 217.774.4888 or our business line at 217.774.3121.</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">We also welcome walk-ins at 1200 South
Hickory, Shelbyville.</span><span style="font-family: verdana;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Reach out to us
and we can start this new season together.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Susie Kensil<br />Shelby County Domestic Violence Coordinator</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-86801323432167393412021-09-03T09:05:00.002-07:002021-09-03T09:05:56.015-07:00There is a great deal to be done<p> Well, August has certainly been a busy month here at Dove. I
hope all of you are staying healthy and safe and that you’re staying cool in
the heat. We may be amid a heatwave, but I’m thinking cool thoughts and
dreaming about Christmas.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>The first piece of news regarding our baskets program is
that we have both a new name and a new logo! The logo debuted in last month’s
newsletter, created by Dove’s Director of Volunteers and Community Relations,
Barb Blakey. It really highlights our partnerships with Northeast Community
Fund, Salvation Army, and the community who is so generous with their donations
of time, money, gifts, and food.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>The new title, Christmas Care and Share, gets right at the
heart of what we aim to do with the program – care about others and share our
resources, share our love of people – with as many others as we can.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">After meeting with the planning committee for the program,
and meeting with Salvation Army and Northeast Community Fund, we decided to
give gifts once more to kids up to age 17. We are also going to give away some
of the bigger ticket items (such as bikes, scooters, riding toys, and
hoverboards) in a lottery to make sure everyone has equal opportunity at those
items. We always want to be as fair as possible, and this feels like the best
way to go about it with those gifts.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As for location, we don’t know for certain yet where we will
be assembling and distributing baskets this year. Last year as most of you
know, we utilized the former Kroger in Fairview Plaza, which worked out great
for multiple reasons, but it also came with a hefty price tag that none of our
agencies can afford to pay again. Our tentative plan is – we are hoping to
utilize the gymnasium at Salvation Army. However, now, there is construction
going on at their shelter and their clients are sleeping in said gymnasium. The
construction folks are hopeful that construction will be done by October, but
with the struggle to get supplies, workers, and the ongoing pandemic, they just
don’t know for sure at this point.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>So much of this month has been dedicated to trying to find a
Plan B. There are a few things up in the air as possibilities, but nothing
concrete yet.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>Initially we were set to meet with agency and school
representatives on September 13 to give them their referrals to take back to
their agencies and schools to decide which of their families needed assistance
the most. We like to give them ample time to do that, and to contact their
families and distribute the information and get it back to us before crunch
time (when we make the move from working in the office to working wherever
we’re setting up for assembly and distribution). We have now pushed that
meeting date to October 6, and made it a Zoom meeting, both for convenience’s
sake and to give us more time to see if construction will be finished up at the
Salvation Army. Please say a prayer that it is, as it really is our best option
at this point.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>As every year, we have quite a list of outside agencies and
schools that we give referrals to. So far those who’ve decided to participate
in 2021 are below:</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>Agencies:</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>
Anna Waters</li><li>
Baby Talk</li><li>
Big Brothers Big Sisters</li><li>
Cancer Care</li><li>
Child 1<sup>st</sup> Center</li><li>
Decatur Rehab</li><li>
Growing Strong Sexual Assault Center</li><li>
Macon County Health Department</li><li>
Heritage</li><li>
MRI (Macon Resources)</li><li>
Old King’s Orchard Community Center</li><li>
Webster Cantrell Youth Advocacy</li><li>
Youth With a Positive Direction</li></ul><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Schools:<br /></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>
American Dreamer Academy</li><li>Decatur Christian School</li><li>Harris School</li><li>Holy Family</li><li>Hope Academy</li><li>John’s Hill</li><li>Meridian</li><li>Milligan Academy</li><li>Our Lady of Lourdes</li><li>Parson’s</li><li>Richland Community College</li><li>Robertson Charter</li><li>South Shores Elementary School</li><li>St. James/St. Pat’s</li></ul><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We’re confident that we’ll have others coming aboard to give
referrals to their families in the next few weeks, as we’ve been reaching out to
a lot of new entities we haven’t worked with before, for this purpose, trying
to catch as many people who might otherwise fall between the cracks and not
receive needed help.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>We’re always in need of homemade stockings and warm items
for kids (hats, gloves, scarves), and also would love to receive rolls of tape
for wrapping gifts. One area we struggle in is stocking stuffers for pre-teen
and teen boys. Something that’s right around the corner is Halloween and those
giant bags of mixed candies make GREAT stocking stuffers for kids of all ages –
so if you wanted to grab an extra bag when you grab one for the kiddos in your
neighborhood, we’d appreciate that very much.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>Though there’s a lot up in the air, the process is still
very exciting. If you’re wanting to get involved or help, please don’t hesitate
to reach out to Angie at Dove, Inc. at 217.428.6616 or by email at <a href="mailto:awilliams@doveinc.org">awilliams@doveinc.org</a>. There’s a great
deal to be done.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimX_nHN282iTDJ6GCxYudx4WDj5ObODXqfkFH4vT-z-v_3ttvLX8Cu8NC2vMajkP9_4swbUVbyoQKdu7RqUt5roGpmm_QVZcWgImtui-qcCDQceNgdC0UQX-fRPozJvpF8xoJWJ7olCzY/s1050/cc%2526s+black+background+august+2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1050" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimX_nHN282iTDJ6GCxYudx4WDj5ObODXqfkFH4vT-z-v_3ttvLX8Cu8NC2vMajkP9_4swbUVbyoQKdu7RqUt5roGpmm_QVZcWgImtui-qcCDQceNgdC0UQX-fRPozJvpF8xoJWJ7olCzY/s320/cc%2526s+black+background+august+2021.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-18515216450227633332021-08-12T13:21:00.001-07:002021-08-12T13:21:17.324-07:00You don't have to be able to Dance to do Baskets<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal">Growing up in the world of dance, one of my favorite things
to do each year is participate in <i>The Nutcracker </i>Ballet. My favorite
part? Giving the audience a magical Christmas experience with the perfect
setting of lights, music, glittery costumes, and refined steps by ballerinas.
The audience is transported to a magical land of sweets that makes even adults
feel like small children in awe and wonder. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Of course, that’s just what the audience sees! What they
don’t see is the months and months before hand! Long rehearsals, bandage
wrapped dance feet, and stage and tech crews working tirelessly so that every
detail before the final show is perfected. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">After several years, I have started comparing the Christmas
Baskets Process to that of the process for <i>The Nutcracker</i> Ballet.
Starting months and months before, staff and volunteers work endlessly for the
exhilarating distribution week to come. With that said, the magical essence of
the Ballet experience cannot happen with just the prima ballerina, just like
Christmas Baskets cannot run with just one person helping. Choreographers,
dancers, set designers, seamstresses and backstage hand all work together to
make one exciting event happen. There are no small parts! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">If you have never experienced the magical Christmas Basket Process,
I encourage you to get involved in 2021! I encourage you to volunteer with your
friends and family, make stockings, donate, support in prayer; the list is
endless for how you can help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
encourage you to make yourself a new Christmas tradition to bring that magical
feeling, just like <i>The Nutcracker</i>, to those in our community this
holiday season! <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Melissa Girardi<br />Financial Specialist</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33nZ8qXQtfoLEPhkO-0OpnG4Dd8QVprklVpcMp1RYAspHzjfgsR5NbILLFzRsuHy45N9IpXxgE3rmzQx1QxYHAL2q4CxyDfUU6VMs8a67MTY-IVC0i5LSCZj-3jnrm6ZnWq_9BhYdyWs/s1050/cc%2526s+black+logo+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1050" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33nZ8qXQtfoLEPhkO-0OpnG4Dd8QVprklVpcMp1RYAspHzjfgsR5NbILLFzRsuHy45N9IpXxgE3rmzQx1QxYHAL2q4CxyDfUU6VMs8a67MTY-IVC0i5LSCZj-3jnrm6ZnWq_9BhYdyWs/s320/cc%2526s+black+logo+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-78917544096065157612021-04-30T09:09:00.003-07:002021-04-30T09:09:47.020-07:00 “have you talked to a trained domestic violence advocate?"
<p>Have you ever had a victim of domestic violence try and open-up
to you about their abuse and you not know what to say or how to handle it? </p>
<p>Have you found yourself asking a victim of domestic violence,
“why do you stay?”</p>
<p>Moultrie County Dove Office understands that without being
properly trained on domestic violence and best domestic violence practices, it
is hard to know what to say or do when a victim of domestic violence finally
decides to open-up to you about their abuse and we want you to be better
prepared. Asking a victim of domestic violence “why do you stay” can place
emphasis in the wrong place and make the victim feel as if they have done something
wrong. In all actuality, there are many reasons victims of domestic violence stay
in and return to abusive relationships. Victims of domestic violence stay in
abusive relationships for fear for their personal safety and the safety and
well-being of their children. Statistics show that a victim of domestic
violence is at a 75% chance of being killed after leaving an abusive
relationship. Victims of domestic violence stay in or return to abusive
relationships because they lack support from family or friends. Abusers keep
victims isolated from family and friends. Long-term abuse weakens victims of
domestic violence and makes it difficult for them to make decisions without the
help of a family member, friend, or advocate. It is important to understand
that women are battered because they will not give in. They have often tried to
confront their abuser about the behavior and tried to leave. Abusers batter
women to scare them into staying. At Dove we understand victimization and
re-victimization and provide one-on-one counseling and group counseling to help
empower victims of domestic violence and give them the courage they need to
make the choices that best fit the victim and their children’s needs. Dove
understands the fear and confusion victims of domestic violence face while
trying to leave an abusive relationship. At Dove we provide emergency shelter
and legal advocacy to help walk victims of domestic violence through the court
process. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victims of domestic violence
stay in and return to abusive relationships because it is often difficult to
find housing, work, and childcare. At Dove we provide emergency shelter, and
work with community partners to help victims of domestic violence find
permanent housing, childcare, and employment. Victims of domestic violence stay
in and return to abusive relationships because they value the time and effort
they put into their relationship and they have hopes and beliefs that the
abuser will change and get the help they need to stop the abusive behavior. However,
abusers are rarely held accountable for their abusive behavior. They are not ordered
to get the counseling and services they need to stop the abusive behavior and
continue to harass the victim or move on to another victim. At Dove we work
with local law enforcement and court officials to continue to strive toward
better domestic violence practices.</p>
<p><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moultrie County Dove
Office asks that in the future if a victim of domestic violence feels
comfortable opening-up to you about abuse, do not panic and ask the victim the
age-old question, “why do you stay”? instead, please ask: “have you talked to a
trained domestic violence advocate”? </p>
<p>A trained domestic violence advocate is available at Dove’s 24hr
hotline by calling 217.728.9303. If you or someone you know is interested in
Dove’s Domestic Violence training to be better prepared for this type of
situation, please call 217.428.6616 to get more information or register for our
next upcoming class or training.</p>
<p>Group services are now being offered in Moultrie County.
Anyone interested in group services should contact 217.728.9303 for time and
location. </p>
<p>Moultrie County Dove Office would like to thank all of you
in the community for your continued support! Throughout the month of April, we
received monetary donations, diapers, socks, baby items, bathroom items and
toiletries. Thank You, You Truly Make A Difference!</p><p>Becky Freese</p><p>Moultrie County Coordinator</p><p>Domestic Violence Program</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ESmE0ZtiFwRKHdqONez1sUHnH3SL5OkzXHBbQpXOHoq4I6VaCidqsloLp596sS2MIM1K39dvbktn9AN8nXpldSnd7F06Z2lYoNupUlHnGQI5mrp2p78H2wUJQ_0WV1NLPakhGERJj-E/s2048/iStock-973565708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ESmE0ZtiFwRKHdqONez1sUHnH3SL5OkzXHBbQpXOHoq4I6VaCidqsloLp596sS2MIM1K39dvbktn9AN8nXpldSnd7F06Z2lYoNupUlHnGQI5mrp2p78H2wUJQ_0WV1NLPakhGERJj-E/s320/iStock-973565708.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>
Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-61316162870391129412021-04-14T12:31:00.000-07:002021-04-14T12:31:35.056-07:00Facts You Deserve to Know<span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif;"></span>
<p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In working with victims of domestic violence in assisting them
with competing paperwork for an Order of Protection, Legal Advocates report
there has been an increase in reports of many cases where the individual has
been strangled by their abuser.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does any
of this sound familiar or do you know someone who is experiencing any of these
symptoms?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Has your partner ever put their hands around your neck, put you in
a “sleeper hold” or used anything else to strangle you like a scarf, necklace,
belt, rope, etc.?</span></p>
<p><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Strangulation</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> can be very serious!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Symptoms of <b>strangulation </b>include:</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">a sore throat</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">difficulty swallowing</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">neck pain</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">hoarseness</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">bruising on the neck or behind your
ears</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">discoloration on your tongue</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">ringing in your ears</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">bloodshot eyes</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">dizziness</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">memory loss</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">drooling</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">nausea or vomiting</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">difficulty breathing</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">incontinence</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">a seizure</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">a miscarriage</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">changes in mood or personality, like
agitation or aggression</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">changes in sleep patterns</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">changes in vision, such as blurriness
or seeing double</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">fainted or lost consciousness</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It’s possible to experience strangulation and show no symptoms at
first but die weeks later because of brain damage due to lack of oxygen and
other internal injuries. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For this
reason, and for a safe way to document the abuse, it is strongly recommended one
consider seeing a doctor if your partner has strangled you. </span></p>
<p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span></p>
<p><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Facts You Deserve to Know</span></b></p>
<p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Strangulation is a significant predictor for future lethal
violence.</span></p>
<p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">If your partner has strangled you in the past, your risk of being
killed by them is 10 times higher.</span></p>
<p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Strangulation is one of the most lethal forms of domestic
violence: unconsciousness may occur within seconds, and death within minutes.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Teri Ducy, Director</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Domestic Violence Program</span></p><p>
</p><p style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Historic"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></p><p style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Historic"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dove's
local county hotline number are answered 24/7. </span></p><p>
</p><p style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Historic"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Macon
217.423.2238</span></p><p>
</p><p style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Historic"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">DeWitt
217.935.6072</span></p><p>
</p><p style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Historic"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Shelby
217.774.4888</span></p><p>
</p><p style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Historic"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Moultrie
217.728.9334</span></p><p>
</p><p style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "inherit",serif; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Historic"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Piatt
217.762.2122</span></p><p>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></p><p><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></span></p>
<br />Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-21944572121455407462021-01-22T09:04:00.002-08:002021-01-22T09:04:56.758-08:00Senior Companion Program Seeking Volunteers!
<p><span style="background-color: yellow;"></span>
</p><p>Dove, Inc. newest program, Senior Companion Program is part of the Senior Corps and
fits in nicely with what we do here at Dove and supports our mission.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> It is a great and needed addition to the service already provided by the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program which was established in the mid-70's! </span></p><p>RSVP Director, Charlie Gillaspie
will oversee this program, and Kathy Walters is the Program Coordinator.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><p>
</p><p>The Senior Companion program recruits volunteers to give
friendship and assistance to homebound seniors that have difficulty with daily
living tasks. The Senior Companion Program or SCP pairs active seniors with
older adults who aren't as independent or mobile. In addition to companionship,
senior companions can prepare a light lunch, give medication reminder, read
mail, and other quality of life activities. Senior Companions are also able to
help provide family caregivers much-needed respite so they can take care of
themselves.</p><p>
</p><p>Senior Companion Volunteers must be 55 years of age or
better, go through background checks and training to participate, and must
commit to 20 hours per week. In return, Senior Companions are provided with
monthly in-service training that keeps them up to date on best practices for
the elderly clients they provide companionship or family respite service.
Companions are offered a small stipend for their service and support from
knowledgeable staff.</p><p>
</p><p>This program is made possible with a grant from AmeriCorps, formerly known as the
Corporation for National and Community Service. </p><p>For additional information, please see our website, www.doveinc.org or contact us at dove@doveinc.org.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuRvXuC3f4mbwY2nN5QHGGFrKSxjQT5k3gHLqHT4oQ29SOzge8sXeR1JpP3A6uRC-JrwtKADR_EGknHIEgqPbYl-Z_YCWu8bV0zH_JarcFx_-I13aeCUHsAfrNjBY5De7Bugz3hLKIJTA/s654/Kathy+Waters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="654" data-original-width="576" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuRvXuC3f4mbwY2nN5QHGGFrKSxjQT5k3gHLqHT4oQ29SOzge8sXeR1JpP3A6uRC-JrwtKADR_EGknHIEgqPbYl-Z_YCWu8bV0zH_JarcFx_-I13aeCUHsAfrNjBY5De7Bugz3hLKIJTA/s320/Kathy+Waters.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kathy Walters, SCP Coordinator</div><br /><p><br /></p><p>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></p>
Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-86593858944958490522021-01-07T10:33:00.001-08:002021-01-07T10:33:31.344-08:00Financial Abuse IS Domestic Violence
<p style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto;">We have all heard that the love of money is the root of all evil. For excessive wealth breeds corruption, greed,
and manipulation within our society, and we all know our place in the class
system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These traits are not exclusively
reserved for the wealthy, for even the smallest amount of money, or the promise
of money can be used as a tool of manipulation and control over another human
being. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is the need for power and
control that fuels inequalities in relationships where Domestic Violence is
prevalent. This also includes Financial Abuse. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Financial Abuse is Domestic Violence. </p>
<p style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto;">I am addressing Financial
Abuse for the simple reason that it we have started the New Year very much
immersed in a pandemic where most are having strain placed on income, and when
there is any fluctuation in income, whether that be excess or not enough,
stress occurs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I</span>t is more often than
not that I am reminded that when people think of Domestic Violence, they seem
to associate that only with the physical, visible abuse. What goes unseen many
times in Domestic Violence is the Financial Abuse that often is taking place.
Financial abuse can look many ways such as putting a person on an allowance or
making them ask for money, not letting a person have access to family income or
forcing a person to turn over their paycheck, keeping one from having any say
or role in deciding how money is spent, stopping/preventing someone from
getting or keeping a job or, lastly, spending money that is needed for
utilities, rent, and food on things such as drugs, alcohol, or gambling. </p>
<p style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto;">Financial Abuse is
Domestic Violence. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is degrading and
dehumanizing to the victim being controlled. It’s also one of the biggest
barriers as to why people stay in abusive relationships; they simply fear they
will not be able to make it without the abuser or have even been told they will
not be able to make it without the financial support of their abuser. Financial
Abuse is silent and often overlooked, and some people aren’t even aware that
they are being financially abused and manipulated. You must know about something
before you can recognize it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During this
peculiar time of tax season where family finances can be uncharacteristically
up or down, it is important to know the signs of financial abuse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We at Dove, Inc. offer help for those in
abusive financial situations. Please don’t be afraid to reach out. All services
are confidential and free. </p><p style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto;">Liz Mackey is the Piatt County Coordinator for the Domestic Violence Program</p>
Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-27295299352597580712020-12-03T08:24:00.001-08:002020-12-03T08:24:14.026-08:00Orts, Revisited
<p>I don’t know how many times I heard it. It was the summer of
1970. I was newly arrived in Decatur. I came as a free-lance community organizer,
working the Torrence Park neighborhood.</p>
<p style="tab-stops: 337.5pt;">During my first few weeks on the
job, people kept saying it. “Fred, there’s this guy you need to meet, down at
the First Christian Church. Name’s Ray Batman.” Finally I picked up the phone
and arranged to drive my shaky pink Plymouth Valiant downtown to 441 North
Church Street.</p>
<p>He greeted me at the door. We shook hands and wound our way down
the hall to a cluttered storeroom in the basement. It was Dove’s first office,
and he was its only employee. He and I had started our new jobs within days of
each other at the tail end of June. We had that in common, and as it turned
out, much more. </p>
<p>What he said that day stuck with me.</p>
<p>Memory is a tricky thing, and it’s been a very long time.
But in my recollection, he introduced me to Dove something like this: “We’re a
small bunch of white church folks, Fred. And our mission is to other folks like
us. You see, racism is a white problem, not a black one. And if we’re ever
gonna do anything about it, we need to work in the white community.”</p>
<p>That was gutsy. It was bold. I knew immediately that this
guy got it, that here in front of me was a person of uncommon sense. And so he
has proven to be, again and again – a person who can see a problem from a
unique perspective and come up with an approach better than anyone else could
have conceived. A person graced with vision and humor and kindness.</p>
<p>Back then sitting in his humble office, I know this was a
guy I needed to know better. But little did I know that five years later I
would become Dove’s third employee when Ray hired me. As 1975 opened, I trucked
myself and a flourishing project for VISTA Volunteers from the then-defunct
Torrence Park Citizens Committee a few blocks north to Dove’s second home in a
small bungalow at 1112 East Locust Street.</p>
<p>And little did I know that three years after that, Ray would
leave for a position managing Walter Scott Camp south of Effingham, and I would
climb two flights of stairs to what had been Ray’s office in the attic and start
a new job as executive director. Or that nine years later I would lure Ray back
to Dove as its new finance director and genius-in-residence. Or that ten years
after that I would take my leave, and Ray would resume his place as executive
director. </p>
<p>And on that summer day in 1970, I could not have foreseen
that, adding another 23 years, Ray and I would remain fast friends and
confidants, that every week or so one of us would pick up his phone and we’d
chat for an hour or so about all sorts of things, resolve none of them, and be
okay with it.</p>
<p>If you’re counting, yes, that’s 50 years. </p>
<p>During that time, Dove has moved several times, from 1112
East Locust to 788 and 800 East Clay, and from Clay Street to its current
headquarters at 302 South Union.</p>
<p>And while the organization has moved, one hopes it has kept its
feet firmly planted in one place: in the daring mission that Ray laid out for
it, to listen to uncommonly good sense, to prod, to poke, to be bold, and to
take on the uneasy tasks. One hopes that Dove will always be proud to reflect
the spirit of its founder.</p>
<p><i>(Fred Spannaus served Dove as a program director from
1975 to 1977 and as executive director from 1978 to 1997, and he has been an
advisor to Homeward Bound for the past two decades. During his tenure as
director, he wrote a column for DoveTales called “Orts.” If you must know, orts
are scraps of food and a good end-of-game Scrabble play).</i></p><p><i>This original copy from the December 2020 DoveTales Newsletter for our "Anniversary Reflections" page. </i></p>
Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-46838679192025359622020-11-17T09:58:00.001-08:002020-11-17T09:58:23.463-08:00 I am Thankful
<p>
</p><p><br /></p><p>
</p><p><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I know amid
the COVID pandemic, many are finding it hard to be thankful this holiday
season. Missing loved ones lost to this devastating virus, worrying about our
most vulnerable populations, and praying our loved ones will stay safe has
undoubtedly taken a toll. Now we are being asked to skip family traditions and
forego our usual Thanksgiving Day feast with our loved ones. It is hard to be
thankful when things are not going well, but I am still thankful.</span></p><p>
</p><p><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Thankful for
the love and compassion I get to witness every day. Thankful I live in a place
where organizations and social service agencies work together to meet our
communities' needs. Thankful that in the last 50 years, Dove has spread their
wings to adapt and change to fight social injustices and unmet human
needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thankful that Dove continues to
develop programming and expand its reach to others. Thankful, they look to use
technology, innovation, and leadership to continue moving forward to serve
others, even during a pandemic. I am thankful that I work with so many great
people at Dove.</span></p><p>
</p><p><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Many (if not
all) staff members would tell you we would like to work ourselves out of a job.
No more homelessness, hunger, or even domestic violence. No more families
facing financial hardships or kids that need coats. However, that's not
happening today, so I am thankful that I get to meet these challenges together
with them because, after all, we are all in this together, and for that, I am
truly thankful.</span></p><p>
</p><p><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Charlie Gillaspie</span></p><p>
</p><p><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>RSVP/SCP Director </span></p><p>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></p>
Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-49858877030022558542020-11-06T12:44:00.004-08:002020-11-06T12:44:58.905-08:00 Dove at 50 Years: Unique and Evolving
<p>
</p><p>Looking back to reflect on personal or communal history is
guaranteed to bring up a gamut of memories and emotions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This look back records some of my memories
and feelings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I must say I feel
fortunate to have crossed paths with the people and mission of Dove.</p><p>
</p><p> </p><p>
</p><p>In the late 1970’s I was a full-time mom of three children
and joined Decatur’s League of Women Voters chapter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The group chose domestic violence as a study
topic one year and I volunteered to help inquire into the incidence and nature
of this newly-named phenomenon. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Study
led us to connecting with a small local group of women (nurses, teachers, counselors,
and survivors of domestic violence) beginning to identify the need for
specialized responses to serve safety, legal and family issues caused by
domestic violence.</p><p>
</p><p> </p><p>
</p><p>I joined the group focused on action and services.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After some months of linking with education
and training to provide services for women and children seeking safety, we
managed to establish some basic emergency shelter arrangements and a hotline
for women to call in an emergency.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
had become the Committee Against Domestic Violence (CADV) and the hotline
number was, and remains, 423-2238 (423-CADV).</p><p>
</p><p> Struggling to build a solid program for folks whose safety
and survival was at risk was tough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Happily, we realized that a local non-profit – Dove, Inc. – already had a
mission and a track record of meeting “unmet needs” with a commitment to
justice, equality and understanding among all people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hoped and asked that Dove consider taking
us in and giving us a home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a good
fit and nurturing spot for CADV to grow!</p><p>
</p><p> Thanks to Dove’s Board and executive directors in the early
years, this agency has remained unique and evolving in ways that facilitated
amazing development of staff, services, professionalism and community support.</p><p>
</p><p> Dove’s uniqueness is demonstrated in part by the Board
structure:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>representative members from
area churches intentionally work to BE an ecumenical presence of
faith-in-action.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That solid grounding
then supports client services that DO NOT venture into any evangelizing or
worship or limitations on who can participate in programming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was always proud when I watched Jewish
women, Muslim women, and hundreds whose faith wasn’t shared all be welcomed and
valued as blessings.</p><p>
</p><p> Dove’s ability to evolve was necessary as the Domestic
Violence Program and Homeward Bound were added.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Both areas have specific funding streams and standards which required
accountability by providers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Executive
Director Fred Spannaus led the way in the 1980’s and 1990’s, guiding the search
for grant funding and joining us in the community collaboration needed to
support these programs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fred and the
Board fully supported our membership in the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic
Violence where we accessed on-going training and mentoring in our work to build
an effective and well-regarded program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Their emphasis on ethics, accountability and client-centered services
matched Dove’s own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Workers have
appreciated the occasions when the Board and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>an Executive Director have supported and believed in the expertise and
integrity honed through focused effort.</p><p>
</p><p> An evolving organization hits inevitable bumps along the way
but Dove in 2020 is in good hands, continuing to change and grow when required
and still rooted in the mission and values that have guided faithfully over 50
years.</p><p>
</p><p> Finally, I’d like to give a personal shout-out to some whose
influences are special in my memory:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fred Spannaus, Sue Simcox, Ray Batman, John Henry Cain, Kim Stahl,
Darrel Parish, Connie Requarth, Amy Wilson, Mary Nolte, Barb Mills,<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Craig Mandernach and Larry
Lovell-Troy </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and all of my
colleagues at Domestic Violence and Homeward Bound, some of whom still do the
good work daily!</p><p>This Anniversary Reflection was written by Cluney John, former Dove Staff Member.</p><p>Thanks Cluney!</p><p>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></p>
Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-57724461808857468842020-10-07T06:10:00.002-07:002020-10-07T06:10:26.725-07:00Alternative Images for Men - Domestic Violence Men’s Group A Personal Perspective
<p>AS we enter October and mark Domestic Violence Month, I
remember my introduction to Dove’s program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In the summer of 1980, I was the at-home parent for our two young
daughters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I responded to a knock on the
door to find Larry Troy, a sociology professor from Millikin University, asking
if I had an interest in working on a project investigating services for abusive
men as part of the Dove Domestic Violence Program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew I had a background on teaching
communication skills and thought it might be helpful.</p>
<p>A small group of us met through that summer and decided to
develop a curriculum to be presented to abusers to help them change their
abusive behavior.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was not a lot of
research material available.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Active
groups throughout the country did not begin to meet together until the
mid-1980s in St. Louis to share their programs and results.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the early 1980s we decided to push forward
with what we had.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We announced we had a
program for men and were in business.</p>
<p>The AIM group met in a small basement room in First
Presbyterian Church where the Domestic Violence program had been meeting until
they had moved to the small apartment shelter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The first week Larry and I waited – and no one came.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The second week one man showed up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His wife and children had left and he didn’t
know what to do. He continued to come for eight weeks, but no one else
did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We covered anger management, the
law, communication skills, responsibility, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Very slowly other men came to the group since the program was not
mandated at that point.</p>
<p>The program evolved as Larry left and then I left in the
early 1990s. The AIM program began to utilize the Duluth Program from Duluth
MN.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a successful 26-week program
with videos, worksheets, roleplays and co-leaders, usually male and female to
demonstrate equality decision making.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The program participants became mandated by the judicial system and the
numbers increased.</p>
<p>I returned to the AIM group in 2003 when I retired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were regularly seeing 10 to 12 men at each
weekly meeting with several different groups in Decatur and Clinton.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The groups sponsored by Dove continued until
mid-2009 when they were suspended due to financial constraints. </p>
<p>During the time I was involved with AIM I personally
interacted with over 800 abusive men in Macon and DeWitt County. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The work was very fulfilling and needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Quantifying results is difficult due to
relationship breakups and lack of accurate feedback.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over the years I have seen some of the men
from the group at work and throughout the community and have heard their
subsequent stories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I continue to be an
avid supporter of the Dove Domestic Violence Program.</p>
<p>Craig Mandernach</p>
<br />Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-63689294249422357772020-08-28T08:22:00.004-07:002020-08-28T08:22:59.933-07:00Anniversary Reflection
<p>I started my adventure with Dove in the Homeward Bound
Program as the Employment and Life Skills Specialist. After my first year, I
had the opportunity to advance to Dove’s Retired and Senior Volunteer Program
as the newest Program Director. My title and job here at Dove continues to
evolve. I am now known as the RSVP-SCP Program Director. Dove’s latest
services, the Senior Companion Program, offers unique challenges and the
ability to help more people in the community we serve with amazing volunteers’
dedicated help. It is an honor that I am a part of this fantastic
organization.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our RSVP and Dove
volunteers are the best volunteers; their hearts are as golden as Dove’s 50th
anniversary.</p>
<p>As I reflect on Dove’s anniversary, I cannot help but think
of the first persons and churches involved in starting Dove so many years ago.
Did they envision Dove’s growth? Or how vital Dove services would be to so many
different people in our community? Did they think that Dove would have a reach
into five counties? The impact Dove has made in the lives of so many is
incredible. The fact that Dove is still growing and changing with times is a
powerful testimony to the community and people served. Programming has changed
from those first years as Dove faces different challenges. They work hard to
expand and change the programming to address community issues relevant to
today. Honoring yesterday is easy, growing into the future takes talent,
vision, and many dedicated volunteers and staff.</p>
<p>September is my favorite month since it is traditionally the
month the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program holds the annual RSVP Volunteer
Appreciation Luncheon. A time where the staff helps celebrate our dedicated
volunteers for their hours of service with a luncheon complete with pie, prizes,
and the Recognition of Service Excellence R.O.S.E. Awards. This year, our 44<sup>th</sup>,
we had to get creative to celebrate the 300 plus volunteers and are doing so in
uniquely different ways but excited to honor all their hard work.</p>
<p><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dove was needed then,
is vital now, and will continue to serve our mission as we carry forward into
the next 50 years.</p><p>Charlie Gillaspie</p>
Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-12143799147340199552020-08-07T08:00:00.000-07:002020-08-07T08:00:13.604-07:0030 year history with Warm Neighbors Fund<div>Ameren's Warm Neighbors Cool Friends</div><div>Dove has served as the service site for WNCF for 30 years. Below, please see the updated information about WNCF program and their new initiative, Fresh Start Program.</div><div><br /></div><div>WNCF services are provided at the DFA Sites for Macon and DeWitt Counties</div><div><br /></div><div>Macon County: Located inside Northeast Community Fund, 839 N. MLK Jr. Dr., DecaturHours: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. & Monday - Thursday, 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.</div><div><br /></div><div>DeWitt County: Dove DeWitt County Office, 803 W. Leander, ClintonHours: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays mornings, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.</div><div><br /></div><div>Warm Neighbors Cool Friends</div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Applicant can receive WNCF assistance only once per heating season, which is 10/1 to 5/31 each year and once per cooling season, 6/1 to 9/30. <br /></li><li>WNCF matches customer payments (within the last 45 days) up to $350 during heating season and up to $200 during cooling season <br /></li><li>Fresh Start grants should not be used for matching payments<br /></li><li>Heating grants are based solely on income guide-lines while cooling grants are intended for seniors, disabled or those with medical conditions exacerbated by heat (with a doctor's letter)<br /></li><li>WNCF pledge may create a credit balance</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>Ameren Illinois Fresh Start<br /></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Applicant can receive only one Fresh Start Electric Pledge and one Fresh Start Gas Pledge during program term (7/9/20 – 5/31/21 or until funds are depleted)<br /></li><li>Eligible applicants can receive up to a $200 grant for ELECTRIC account and up to $150 for GAS account<br /></li><li>No matching customer payment is required<br /></li><li>Fresh Start Funds are available to customers in the 0-200% federal poverty range only if they are ineligible for LIHEAP funds (as is the case with customers with no Social Security number)<br /></li><li>Customer must have a past due balance to qualify and pledges must not create a credit balance <br /></li></ul><div>Both Programs require:<br /></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Driver's License or other Photo I.D. and Copy of current Ameren Illinois utility bill<br /></li><li>Applicant must reside at the address on the bill and have active service in his or her name<br /></li><li>Income eligibility, see guidelines below</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>Must show proof of 30 Day (GROSS) Income Must be Between<br />Family Size <span> </span>200% <span> <span> </span><span> </span></span>350%</div><div><span> </span>1 <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>$2,127 <span> <span> </span></span>$3,722<br /> 2 <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>$2,873 <span> <span> </span></span>$5,028<br /><span> </span>3 <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>$3,620<span> </span> <span> </span>$6,336<br /><span> </span>4 <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>$4,367 <span> </span><span> </span>$7,642<br /><span> </span>5 <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>$5,113 <span> </span><span> </span>$8,948<br /><span> </span>6 <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>$5,860 <span> </span><span> </span>$10,256<br /><span> </span>7 <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>$6,607 <span> </span><span> </span>$11,562<br /><span> </span>8 <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>$7,353 <span> </span><span> </span>$12,868</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Dove Financial Assistance Program was renamed from MAX in 2020 to reflect service to 5 counties, where as MAX stood for Macon County Assistance eXchange. Below is copy from the November 1990 DoveTales newsletter sharing the news that MAX was selected to be a part of this Ameren. Sound like both programs have grown in the 30 years!</div><div><b></b><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>"MAX selected to distribute winter funds</b></div><div><b></b><br /></div><div><b>Our MAX program has been chosen to distribute "Warm Neighbors Fund" utility assistance payments to families in need.</b></div><div><b></b><br /></div><div><b>The Warm Neighbors Fund is operated by the Energy Assistance Foundation, an offshoot of Illinois Power Company. Money is contributed into this fund from IP consumers, and matched the company.</b></div><div><b></b><br /></div><div><b>Funds are used to help pay energy costs for fixed-income households. IP selected one agency in each of its services acres to screen applications and distribute assistance payments.</b></div><div><b></b><br /></div><div><b>MAX (the Macon Assistance eXchange) was organized by Dove several years ago to coordinate the efforts of churches and social agencies in meeting emergency financial needs...."</b></div><div><i></i><i></i><b></b><b></b><br /></div><div>To learn more about DFA, please see our website at www.doveinc.org or to contact DFA directly, please email DFA@doveinc.org</div>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-84154533470712654392020-07-31T08:26:00.001-07:002020-07-31T08:26:26.327-07:00Anniversary Reflection
<br />
It is hard to believe that in just a couple of weeks it will
have been twenty years since I walked into the Dove Domestic Violence Program
office in Shelbyville for the first time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Interviews and the actual hiring had been done from the Dove offices in
Decatur, so a few days before I was to start my job, I had to go on a driving
tour of Shelbyville to find the office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you are familiar with our town you are no doubt laughing by now….it
is by no means a large city.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The office
is located very well for privacy for our clients, however, on the outskirts of
town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I walked in that morning
alone;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>one of my coworkers from another
county would arrive soon to begin to show me the ropes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was excited, nervous, had little clue what I
was going to be doing and I wasn’t 100% sure I knew how to do whatever that
turned out to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The permanent office
had been in existence for about four months, but my position had been vacant
for about half of that time, so I knew I was starting almost from scratch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My then-supervisor had worked part-time in
the county for a couple of years so some of the community was aware of what our
services were. Being a female, with no set agenda right at that moment, I began
to rearrange the furniture a bit to make it more my style. I was soon armed
with a list of things I could bring from home to make it a more comfortable
setting for my clients. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you must pour
your heart out to a stranger, you might as well feel at home while you do it.<br />
<br />
<br />
One of the very first things I learned is that Dove is an
incredible organization to work for and with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Although I work in this county alone, I never feel that I am alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know that support and answers are always
only a phone call or an email away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I
am perplexed about something, there is always someone in the organization who
has an answer for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My coworkers have
become a second family over the years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There have been births and deaths and other major life experiences, and
always the support has been there from everybody.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There have been major upheavals as an
organization over the years, but we have always pulled together to make things
work despite the curves that were thrown at us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our mission statement says that Dove strives for justice, equality and
understanding among all people; that sentiment begins at home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dove employees are treated in that manner
always.<br />
<br />
<br />
Once I began to figure out just what the job might be, our
growth began quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fact that I am
a native of Shelby County was helpful, as was the support of the law
enforcement and court communities and other local agencies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also received a lot of training from other
employees and from the many training opportunities offered over the years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dove employees are very well trained in their
areas of expertise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>
<br />
Looking back, twenty years seems like a long time, but it
seems like yesterday when I walked in this room for the first time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There have been so many people, so many
stories, so much heartbreak and so much happiness that has happened in all
those years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clients who were successful,
clients who came back when things got scary again and clients who were happy
enough with our services to refer other friends and family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There have been staff members who became
friends and moved on and staff members who have remained who are still almost
like family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have changed for the
better from doing this work and my life has been enriched by it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some things, though, have not changed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am still excited to walk through that door
every morning, and I still never know exactly what I will be doing on any given
day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is part of the charm of the
job for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I do know, however,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that I can handle whatever walks through the
door, either on my own or with the help of one of those phone calls or emails
to someone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am grateful for Dove,
for all my coworkers, and for the chance to make a positive difference in
someone’s life every day……………. even if it is just mine.<br />
Susie Kensil, Shelby County Domestic Violence Coordinator<br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-52964265265905165822020-07-22T07:08:00.001-07:002020-07-22T07:08:29.131-07:00Shout out to our RSVP & SCP Volunteers!
<br />
Did you know that Dove started July 7, 1970 in partnership
with several churches in the area with a focus on helping others? Today Dove
has grown to include numerous programs all working together to uphold Doves
mission and serve our communities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
Dove is a coalition of religious organizations, volunteers,
and advocates that seek to coordinate efforts to address unmet human needs and
social injustices. Dove works for justice, equality and understanding among all
people.<br />
<br />
<br />
As the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program Director I am in
awe of all that Dove programs accomplish every day. Without the help and
support form partner churches, area organizations, donors, and volunteers Dove
would not be as successful as you make us!<br />
<br />
<br />
From programs that have been hosted by Dove for years to the
just starting Senior Companion Program Dove works to stay up to date with the
needs of others. They do that by changing to adapt to the times. Today is no
different from yesterday. Our mission is still the same. It has carried us
through the first 50 years, and we look for it to carry us through the next 50.<br />
<br />
<br />
As loyal supporters and volunteers we challenge you to help
us celebrate in your own way.<br />
<ul>
<li>Tell 50 family, friends, or neighbors about Dove and the services they provide</li>
<li>Collect 50 items to donate to our Homeward Bound or Domestic Violence Programs</li>
<li>Help to fundraise on Dove’s behalf to help us keep the important programs serving five area counties</li>
<li>Collect enough coupons and funds to send the next 50 boxes of coupons overseas</li>
<li>Make it your mission to collect 50 items for any one of our events</li>
<li>Collect 50 coats with you church for Coats for Kids, supply 50 rolls of wrapping paper for the Christmas baskets</li>
<li>Commit to volunteering for 50 days or hours in 2020. </li>
</ul>
<br />
Join us in celebrating Dove’s 50<sup>th</sup> anniversary in a golden way.<br />
<br />
Charlie Gillaspie<br />
RSVP & SCP Program Director<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8iYHkSvKsEkX13WbSW-Uz6iSguh0yrjdNfxDutCPicPGTbtq1wpBAKzlP_9sRxDbSmRuablnIFuMQaCjP9nAXZi3QN00-2b1Yv3skgxpn-czEm1axDANf_sHjAe_zkpgYEbhs6hbT4qw/s1600/turnover+50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="1600" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8iYHkSvKsEkX13WbSW-Uz6iSguh0yrjdNfxDutCPicPGTbtq1wpBAKzlP_9sRxDbSmRuablnIFuMQaCjP9nAXZi3QN00-2b1Yv3skgxpn-czEm1axDANf_sHjAe_zkpgYEbhs6hbT4qw/s320/turnover+50.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-35527348043178933812020-07-15T08:08:00.002-07:002020-07-15T08:08:35.355-07:00Dove is Fifty
<br />
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Most of us were around in 1970. It’s
normal to ask what were you doing on July 7, 1970. Avoiding an embarrassing
answer for you, here’s what was happening. We remember we were in a very
unpopular war. Protests sprung up everywhere. Young men left the US for Canada.
The country was unsettled. The Aswan Dam in Egypt was being constructed. The
USSR and France were conducting nuclear tests. Northern Ireland was in
conflict. The US would soon launch </span><span style="color: #1b1b1b; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Venera 7, for a 1st soft landing on
Venus.</span></div>
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="color: #1b1b1b; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">However, a bright spot shined right here
in Decatur. DOVE was formed. Eight churches agreed to support a new ministry to
be called Disciples on Volunteer Enlistment (DOVE). First Christian (Bethany),
First Christian (Blue Mound), Central Christian, First Christian and Prairie
Avenue Christian Church (Decatur), Harristown Christian, Illiopolis Christian
and Niantic Christian. Ray Batman was the first DOVE Coordinator with a
whopping first budget of $6,380. His office was in the furnace room of Decatur
First Christian. There were 18 volunteers and 128 program participants in
tutoring, sewing and cooking classes.</span></div>
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="color: #1b1b1b; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">The treasurer’s report from November 1972
read balance $17.09. Pledges are needed. Were they wondering if it was worth
the effort? Was it time to throw in the towel? No. The board had a two-hour
meeting and came out with a decision to buy a house. A house on East Locust was
purchased for a new headquarters. By 1973 the budget increased to $14,000 and
they bought a typewriter. 1974 Nancy Jo Batman becomes secretary. A year-round
system for collecting foodstuffs was initiated and DOVE becomes the sponsor of
the VISTA program.</span></div>
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><span style="color: #1b1b1b; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="color: #1b1b1b; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Three regional churches (Presbyterian, United Methodist and
United Church of Christ), join in supporting DOVE in 1975. The next year DOVE
initiates RSVP. Fred Spannaus becomes the second Executive Director in 1978.</span></div>
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="color: #1b1b1b; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="color: #1b1b1b; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">The DOVE house in redecorated for the ten-year anniversary in
1980. RSVP has grown to over 400 volunteers and the overall budget is $125,000.</span></div>
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="color: #1b1b1b; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="color: #1b1b1b; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">In 1980 Fred Spannaus included in his annual report a synopsis
of the first ten years. ”What I found is this: Ten years of steady, Consistent
progress. No single year viewed in isolation, looked very spectacular. But … a
pattern was there. Each year took our work of the previous year a step or two
forward; each year provided one or two good ideas which bore fruit in the next.
For as surely as we’ve enjoyed no exceptional year, we’ve suffered no bad year.
It was impressive, this ten-year flight of steadily ascending stairs. The
history of DOVE is consistent, dynamic and progressive. Far from being a
problem, this is perhaps one of our ministry’s strongest assets. Our past
demonstrates the long-term sense of commitment shared among the hundreds of
folks who have been vital parts of DOVE.”</span></div>
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="color: #1b1b1b; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="color: #1b1b1b; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">As we look back on DOVE’s past this remains the guiding focus of
DOVE today. Consistent progress.</span> </div>
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
Guest Submission</div>
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
Dave Webb</div>
<div style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .25in;">
Serving on Dove's Board of Directors as the RSVP Program Representative and on the Anniversary Committee</div>
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<br /></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-78009190813655117052020-07-08T08:26:00.002-07:002020-07-08T08:26:17.981-07:00needed then, vital nowDove hosted a Press Conference, outside, 10:15 a.m. the morning of July 7. Dove is commemorating its 50th Anniversary this year. 7/7/70, the first Coordinator, Ray Batman reported to work to begin this ministry of Dove.<br />
<br />
As luck would have it, the warning sirens which usually are tested at 10:00 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month in Decatur, were late, going off about 10:17. This needed test pretty much rang the whole time Teri Ducy, Domestic Violence Program Director, was sharing her 2 minute speech at the Press Conference, and made it pretty hard to hear. So below is her comments:<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Good
morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I think about the overall
theme of this special day – in recognition of Dove’s 50<sup>th</sup>
Anniversary,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Needed then….Vital now” –
I find this to be very fitting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Back in the
early 70’s – which was at just the beginning of the domestic violence movement
– there were no shelters – only safe houses in some communities – private homes
who allowed a woman to stay maybe for a night or two……Domestic violence
was<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a “just a family matter” – abusers
were told to “just go drive around the block” – leave each other alone – this
is a civil matter” – shelters worked in their own silos – law enforcement had
their silo – State’s Attorneys offices had their own<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- and so on……..</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Were
services needed back then??<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Absolutely!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Fast forward
to today – New Laws – Coordinated Community Response Teams – collaborations
formed – nearly 60 DV shelters across the state of IL alone – offering a
variety of comprehensive trauma informed services, close partnerships with law
enforcement – VITAL SERVICES – services that were indeed needed back then in
the 70s before anyone truly worked with and understood the dynamics of domestic
violence and how this crime affects all victims and their children, and the
many barriers they were faced with.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Add on top
of that COVID-19 – a time when more than ever – our services are more vitally
needed now than ever before – victims being isolated in their homes with their
abuser, with less resources being readily available, less chance for privacy or
ability to call the police – basically a prisoner in their own homes.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Happy 50<sup>th</sup>
Anniversary to Dove – a time to celebrate the many programs our agency has
offered and continues to offer to those in our community – those who are
vitally in need – as we work toward justice, equality and understanding among
all people!!</span><br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-67774299388815355832020-06-10T15:39:00.002-07:002020-06-10T15:39:17.816-07:00Update from the Domestic Violence Program
<br />
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A victim of domestic violence faces many challenges, however,
during these times with COVID-19, they are faced with even more barriers.
Those who are living at home with their abuser during these times during the
“stay at home, stay safe” order is not a safe option. For them,
they are literally staying at home and trying to survive. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As we expected, calls are beginning to surge, as we knew there
would be a spike in requests for services. For the first couple of weeks
into the stay at home order, calls were normal, and in fact, down.
However, the last couple of weeks, they are beginning to significantly
increase. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For victims of domestic violence, their abusers take this
opportunity to inflict their power and control even more so, due to the
pandemic, especially for those victims who may have recently left their abusive
relationship just prior to the stay at home order, and now the abuser is
contacting them and making empty promises that they have changed, begging them
to return home, and taking advantage of trying to push the right buttons to
persuade their partner they need them and promising them how things will be
different. For many, their financial situation is another barrier that
keeps them from being away from their abuser. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For children – with schools closing and them not having access
to their teachers, coaches, social workers to confide in (all of whom are
mandated reporters), they are not seeing children in person to be able to
notice the signs of abuse to in fact report it.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Since March 17th through June 9th, Dove’s Domestic Violence
Program has assisted in 84 Emergency Orders of Protection and have placed 16
adults and 6 children in off-site shelter. Staff have continued to answer
all 5 of our 24-hour hotlines in all of our counties – Macon, Moultrie, Piatt,
Shelby and DeWitt. In addition to off-site shelter and legal advocacy
pertaining to order of protection assistance, we have provided safety planning,
crisis and telephone counseling, information and referrals.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For anyone in need of services who is a victim of domestic
violence, call 217.423.2238 for Macon County; 217.935.6072 for DeWitt County;
217.728.9334 for Moultrie County; 217.762.2122 for Piatt County; and
217.774.4888 for Shelby County. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Teri Ducy, Director</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Dove Domestic Violence Program</span><br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-28491945452432795712020-06-10T07:34:00.000-07:002020-06-10T07:34:35.352-07:00Dove, Inc.Our agency is called Dove, Inc.<br />
<br />
The name change from DOVE Inc. to Dove, Inc. came about in 1983.<br />
<br />
Looking through some early DoveTales, our newsletter, the name change came about with a Long Range Plan of the then governing body, Dove's General Board.<br />
<br />
from the May 1983 issue<br />
…"* Change in our official name from DOVE Inc. to Dove, Inc."<br />
<br />
from the September 1983 issue<br />
"NOTICE OF CONSTITUTIONAL CHANGE<br />At the Fall General Board meeting, a Constitutional Amendment will be proposed to the membership. This amendment will officially change the name of our ministry from 'DOVE Inc.' to 'Dove, Inc.' The purpose is to make it easier for people to find us in directories. The Fall meeting will be at 7 p.m. October 24 at Oreana Christian Church, Oreana, Ill."<br />
<br />
and then from the December 1983 issue<br />
"The formal name of our organization is now Dove, Inc. Formerly we were known as DOVE Inc. This change was ratified at the General Board Meeting October 24, and will make it easier for people to find our listings in directories. Please make this change in your records."<br />
<br />
It's a formal name and the legal name.<br />
<br />
It used to be a acronym, Disciples of Volunteer Enlistment. People still ask me today what it stands for, trying to fit "domestic violence" into the D and the V. I tell a story, told to me by Fred Spannaus, the then Executive Director when I started at Dove, that when Dove went ecumenical, they dropped the reference to Disciples of Christ Churches - the founding churches - to make welcome to all denominations. I like that story better than finding the name in directories, so I'll keep using it.<br />
<br />
Our agency is called Dove, Inc. We have many program names and event names. We keep our roots with a strong tie to area congregations and volunteers support our programs as well as other agencies through RSVP. We will add programs and change programs and find programs are not needed any longer and let them go. We will keep the name of Dove, Inc.<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
Barbara Blakey</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Director of Volunteers and Community Relations</div>
Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-74396172323625408262020-05-28T13:17:00.001-07:002020-05-28T13:17:42.920-07:00Updates to the Services offered by the Domestic Violence Program<br />
What a challenging time we are in! We are well aware of the risk that victims of domestic violence are especially facing during this time. Although we have been primarily working remotely, we have continued to answer our 24-hour hotlines in all of the 5 counties we serve, Macon, Moultrie, Piatt, Shelby and DeWitt. We have continued to assist with Orders of Protection and provided telephone counseling. Beginning Monday, June 1, 2020 staff will be available in person in each of our offices on a limited basis. Social distancing will be required and everyone must wear a mask upon entry into our buildings. <br />
<br />Please check below for updates, county by county.<br />
<br />
The Macon County Office in Decatur will have staff available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will be available for walk-in appointments for individual counseling and assistance with Orders of Protection. The hotline number is 217.423.2238.<br />
<br />
The Moultrie County Office will open for walk-in services to assist with Orders of Protection and individual counseling with office hours of Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Our 24-hr hotline is always available and can be accessed by calling 217.728.9334. We will screen for symptoms before anyone can enter the office and masks must be worn if it is necessary to be closer than six feet.<br />
<br />
The DeWitt County Office is now more readily available for walk-ins for Emergency Orders of Protection, individual counseling and assistance for clients who have suffered from domestic violence. Our hours are Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesday and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. We will screen for symptoms before anyone can enter the office and masks must be worn if it is necessary to be closer than six feet. <br />
<br />
The Shelby County Office will be reopening on a part-time basis and we are happy to be able to begin to slowly resume normal operations as guidelines allow. Our hours here in Shelbyville are noon to 4:00 p.m. on Monday, and 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Other hours can be available by appointment if these times are not workable for everyone. As of now, our court system will also begin hearing all types of cases on an in-person basis with limits on the number of cases scheduled in person each day. Masks must be worn to enter the courthouse. Please call 217.774.3121 to schedule appointments; it may be necessary at times to leave a message. For crisis situations, please continue to call 217.774.4888. We will screen for symptoms before anyone can enter the office and masks must be worn if it is necessary to be closer than six feet. I look forward to seeing all of you in person.<br />
<br />
The Piatt County Office will be open Mondays and Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., to serve walk-in and client appointments. All coming for services must wear a mask. The hotline will, as always, continue to serve the community 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 217.762.2122.<br />
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Support Groups will not restart until the middle to end of June. Check back for more information on those meeting.<br />Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-28813051007810455952020-05-20T12:14:00.003-07:002020-05-20T12:14:57.100-07:00May is Older Americans Month
<br />
Administration for Community Living leads our nation’s
observance of Older Americans Month in May. A time to encourage and celebrate
countless contributions that our older adults make to our communities. Your
time, experience, and talents benefit family, peers, and neighbors every day.
Communities, organizations, and individuals of all ages are making their marks.
We want to thank you all for making your mark as part of the Retired and Senior
Volunteer Program. We love the big and bold marks volunteers are leaving on our
communities every day. During this COVID pandemic many of you have been making
your mark on our community by sharing your talent and making masks. There has
been a wonderful response from our volunteers to help make masks for our
partner stations. This allows our community partners to continue serving others
in a much safer manner. It is times like these that our volunteers help to
carry us all through with experience, support, and talent. Thank you for Making
your Mark in our communities.<br />
Charlie Gillaspie, RSVP / SCP Director<br />
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8476865424626382816.post-62949138817450635962019-11-15T11:24:00.001-08:002019-11-15T11:26:20.798-08:00Countdown to Christmas!<br />
I always get excited about working on the Christmas Baskets
Program in late summer and early fall. There’s a lot to be excited about this
year, including our new partnership with Toys For Tots. I’m also excited to be
working with several new schools and agencies in Macon County, including
Growing Strong Sexual Assault Center, Meridian Elementary School, Richland
Community College, St. Patrick’s Catholic School and Warrensburg Elementary.<br />
<br />
<br />
When you have a goal of serving up to 3000 children, you
have to make some new connections and come up with new ways of doing things.<br />
<br />
<br />
The other thing we’re doing this year that we haven’t before
is having our Christmas Baskets Team take public applications. The way this
works is that we set up in our conference room downstairs at Dove, Inc., and
spend the day signing people up who walk in for an application.<br />
<br />
<br />
On Thursday, November 14<sup>, </sup>from 8:30 – noon, and 1
– 5 pm and 6 – 8 pm anyone in Macon County who’s in need of a basket can come
by, show proof of need (through the use of a medical card, WIC booklet,
unemployment letter, etc.), proof of who’s living in the home (again, medical
cards are great, but birth certificates, photo ID’s or pieces of mail addressed
to each person individually are acceptable), and be signed up to receive a
basket. We’re doing this again the following week, as well, on Tuesday,
November 19, during all the same times. If you or someone you know are in need
of a basket, please come by one of those two days so we can assist you! We’re
happy to help.<br />
<br />
We are still going to be cross-referencing with other
agencies doing Christmas baskets so we can all serve the most people possible
without over-serving any one family, so if you sign up with us, please don’t
sign up somewhere else, too.<br />
<br />
<br />
We’ve already begun receiving donations – including 700 or
so more blankets from Project Linus, who were awesome enough to think of us
again this year – and we’ve got quite a stash of toys building in our hallway.
The only thing this year we’re asking not to receive are clothes. <br />
<br />
<br />
We’re definitely still in need of the following: <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Stockings (call for a pattern if you need one!)</li>
<li>Hats and gloves in all sizes</li>
<li>Wrapping paper (partial rolls are okay)</li>
<li>Tape</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Volunteers – please call Angie, Basket Program Coordinator<br />
at 217.428.6616 </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or email her
at <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">awilliams@doveinc.org</a> to schedule
a time! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Dove, Inc.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05910638757152539425noreply@blogger.com0