October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and it serves as an important reminder of the ongoing need to support survivors of domestic violence and raise awareness about the services available in our community. The Women’s Center of Marquette is at the forefront of this mission, offering a range of programs and services to help survivors rebuild their lives. Recently, we had the opportunity to speak with Hannah Holma, Program Director at the Women’s Center, to learn more about the organization's efforts and upcoming events.
The Women's Center is a community-based organization that supports survivors of domestic and sexual violence through a variety of programs. "We offer housing resources, employment resources, therapy, support groups—really, if a survivor comes in and says they need help, we do our best to provide that support or refer them to other local organizations," said Holma. These services are crucial in helping survivors regain stability and independence.
Domestic violence is a significant issue in the U.S., with over 10 million Americans affected each year. "One in three women and two in five men report experiencing domestic violence at some point in their lifetime," Holma noted, highlighting the urgency of the issue.
A common misconception about domestic violence is that it only affects women. Holma was quick to clarify that the Women's Center serves all survivors, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. "This can happen to anyone, no matter their socioeconomic status, education level, or gender," she said. By breaking down these misconceptions, the Women's Center aims to ensure that all survivors feel supported and empowered to seek help.
Listen to Kurt Hauswirth's conversation with Women's Center Program Director Hannah Holma:
One of the best ways the community can get involved is by supporting the Women’s Center through donations, whether financial, goods, or volunteer time. “We can always use donations for our pantry, as well as volunteers,” said Holma. In addition, several fundraisers and awareness events are taking place throughout October to encourage community participation.
Pack Rats Thrift: Shop for a Cause (October 16, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.)
- Shop for bargains at Pack Rats Thrift, where all proceeds go back to programs and services at the Women’s Center. Attendees can also enter a raffle for a gift card.
Texas Roadhouse Dine and Donate (October 18, 3 p.m. - 10 p.m.)
- Enjoy dinner at Texas Roadhouse and mention the Women’s Center and 10% of your bill will be donated to their cause.
Coffee with an Advocate (Every Tuesday in October)
- Meet with an advocate to learn more about the Women’s Center or connect to services. The next Coffee with an Advocate will take place on October 22 at Provisions in Marquette and Falling Rock Café in Munising, and on October 29 at Doozer’s in Ishpeming.
Downtown Day Out Fundraiser
- Looking ahead to November, the Women’s Center will also benefit from the Downtown Day Out event on November 21. This daylong shopping and dining experience is an inclusive new twist on the traditional Ladies Night Out. The event, hosted by the Marquette DDA, allows participants to purchase a Downtown Day Out Passport for a $2 donation. Visiting up to ten participating locations will give attendees the chance to win gift baskets filled with items donated by local businesses, with all proceeds going directly to support the Women's Center.
Holma emphasized the importance of these events in supporting their mission. “It’s a community-based problem, so we need a community-based solution,” she said, encouraging everyone to take part.
For those in need of help, the Women’s Center offers several ways to access their services. Walk-ins are welcome at their administration building (1310 S Front Street, Marquette) from Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The center also operates a 24/7 support line (906-226-6611) and offers a chat feature on its website (wcamt.org) for anonymous conversations with advocates.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, remember that you are not alone. For more information about the Women’s Center or to get involved, visit wcamt.org.
