Our understanding of domestic abuse and the issues surrounding it have evolved in the 25 years since DOVE Center first opened in 1994. Thanks to years of research, countless studies, and the amplification of survivor voices our society has advanced to have a better understanding of interpersonal violence. And the better we understand the issues surrounding and leading to such violence, the more equipped we are to hold perpetrators accountable, identify strategies to prevent violence, and support survivors.
DOVE Center Blog
Pets: the hidden weapon of domestic abuse
One in three Utah women will experience some form of intimate partner violence in their lifetime. The problem is rampant and close, and it is likely happening, has happened or will happen to someone close to you. Living with abuse can cause emotional, physical and mental distress. For many, companion pets can help relieve and heal that anguish.
DOVE receives 1st UNA credential badge
DOVE Center has been awarded the Leadership & Organizational Credential Badge through UNA’s Nonprofit Organizational Credential program. Utah Nonprofits Association only awards badges to organizations that have proven best practices, and we are proud to be among the 6 other organizations to have received this recognition.
5 easy ways to support survivors this April
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, or SAAM, an opportunity to raise awareness and get involved. DOVE Center is a proud provider of services to survivors of sexual assault in the greater St. George area. Take part in one or more of the following events to...
The government shutdown and DOVE
We are facing uncertain times as the federal government shutdown continues with no immediate end in sight. DOVE Center is calling on the community to stand with survivors to help ensure that the critical services on which they rely will continue without interruption.
The Age of Consent
Increased healing and awareness, positive cultural awakening, and perpetrator accountability are all positive outcomes of the #MeToo revolution. Unfortunately, there’s a bit of a downside that is emerging as well, and we have more work to do.
We need to quit asking survivors, “what were you wearing?”
Last month, DOVE Center and DSU’s Women’s Resource Committee sponsored an interactive exhibit on campus called “What Were You Wearing,” the purpose of which is to dispel a victim-blaming myth that clothing somehow invites a sexual assault. Victims of crime are not...
Calling All Men: Domestic Violence is Your Issue, Too!
“I see men and boys trying to outdo each other to see who’s more tough, more manly,” Rivers said. “But I believe a man is one who joins in the movement to end violence against women and children, who confronts those who commit the violence, who sets an example for boys and younger men, and who stands up to protect and respect women. That is a man.” ~Victor Rivas Rivers, 2018 guest presenter for DOVE’s 5th Annual Gala
A Letter of Thanks for Your Support
At the end of each fiscal year we provide a report to inform donors, volunteers, and community members about our current financial position and funding sources, and highlight the year’s accomplishments. Below is a short letter of thanks from our Executive Director and Board of Trustees President that was included in our Annual Report. To view the entire report, click here.
The Mask of Concealment
They were the perfect family. You know, that family that has it all: the beautiful yard surrounded by the white picket fence, situated in an ideal neighborhood; nice cars, a boat, active in the community, the center of multiple social networks. Dad held a prominent professional position in the community, Mom was developing a high-powered career; they were raising beautiful children who were active in after-school activities and had busy social lives. Everyone admired their perfect life. In fact, many were envious and could only hope to one day have what this family had. Until the unthinkable happened.
The clown that never leaves
Sexual assault is a raw and brutal crime to survive. There are physical, emotional, psychological and financial effects that can last a lifetime. And even though survivors work hard to heal from the very real after-effects of an assault or rape, the reality of such trauma comes flooding back without warning and can trigger unwanted anxiety, self-doubt, sadness and anger.
I didn’t see it coming
Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone, often developing gradually and worsening over time. The abuse isn't always physical, either. It can be psychological, emotional, and even digital. Domestic violence can take many forms, which is why it's hard to see it...