By Madeline Busch

In 1989, the U.S. Congress passed Public Law 101-112 designating October of that year as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  Such legislation has passed every year with communities across the United States conducting a wide range of diverse programs that inevitably center around common themes:  mourning victims of domestic violence who did not survive, celebrating those who have survived and rebuilt their lives, and focusing on agencies who work to end domestic violence.

Not unlike many other communities, Kernersville will acknowledge Domestic Violence Awareness Month with a myriad of activities including exciting fundraising events sponsored by Eclection, Zaxby’s, and the Piedmont Club.  Everyone is invited to join these events – more information is available below and on the Next Step Ministries website and Facebook page.

Kernersville is a special community so when October is over, the victims of domestic violence will not be forgotten.  They will be acknowledged and supported year round because of the efforts of Next Step Ministries and the community.

Domestic violence comes in many shapes and sizes.  It can happen to anyone, anywhere and often it can be hard to recognize.  Some relationships can go from happy to hurtful very quickly and it may leave victims confused, scared, and unsure of what to do or where to go.  Nearly a third of American women report being physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some point in their lives.  Thirty percent of Americans report knowing a woman who has been a victim of abuse.  Kernersville is not insulated from the impact of domestic violence.  Over the past six years, Next Step Ministries has seen over a 40 percent increase in requests for help.

For the past 19 years, Next Step Ministries has been serving victims of domestic violence and their children by providing a wide range of services including, but not limited to, safe shelter, food, clothing, transportation, employment assistance, and counseling.  Assistance related to court procedures to secure long term protection for the victims and their children has been provided as well.  In addition, the women that Next Step Ministries assists have the opportunity to participate in support groups and educational sessions to help them escape the cycle of abuse that they have experienced.

Not only does Next Step Ministries support victims of domestic violence, it is committed to educating the community about the impact of domestic violence as well as how to recognize the signs of abuse.  Aiming for the prevention of domestic violence all together.  Speakers are available through Next Step Ministries to address civic organizations, church groups, and businesses.

Next Step Ministries is very much a community based organization – supported locally by businesses, churches, and individuals through both monetary contributions and by supplies donated for the operation of the Safe House.  Critically important are the volunteers who assist in the Next Step Ministries Thrift Store and the Safe House.  All profits from the Thrift Store, located at 955 NC- 66, contribute to the support of Next Step Ministry Programs.

This year promises to be an especially challenging and exciting one for NSM.  The administrative office has been relocated and there is hope that after years of struggle a new Safe House may be built to accommodate the increased demand for a secure haven for the victims and their families.

Next Step Ministries is the fruit of a visionary effort by Kernersville residents and has thrived because of community support.  There are so many ways to advance the mission to defeat domestic violence and to help victims to reclaim their lives.  To learn more about contributing time, supplies, or financially, visit the NSM website at www.NextStepDV.org.

During October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, spend some time learning about the issues and join fundraising efforts to support Next Step Ministries listed below.  This will help NSM and Kernersville continue being leaders in protecting victims of domestic violence and eradicating future abuse.

Special October NSM Fundraising Events:

October 1 – “Take a Seat for Charity” – Sponsored by Eclection

October 15 – “Chug a Shake” 5K Fun Run – Sponsored by Zaxby’s

October 22 – “Denim and Diamonds” Sponsored by Club Core – Piedmont Club