Skaneateles Community Shows Outpouring of Support

Over 100 women attended an afternoon gathering at the lakeside home of Barb Tresness on Friday, June 11^th.  Attendees donated items to support the needs of women and children served by Vera House. Among items collected were: diapers, baby wipes, bottles, baby blankets, infant toys, formula and clothing.  Vera House was also thrilled to receive donations totaling over $7,900!  The donations were earmarked for Vera House's emergency shelter program where services are offered at two confidential locations.


 

Rachel Titus-Cox receives Award

Rachel will be honored with the CBS 5 Women in Leadership Award at a luncheon on May 27th. Rachel was nominated for this award because of her outstanding oversight of Vera House's Alternatives Program for men who have been abusive in their relationships. Rachel is also active in Mothers Against Gun Violence. Congratulations Rachel!

Jodi DeAugustine wins Board Leadership Award

On March 30, 2010, The Business Journal and BizEventz honored area nonprofit corporate executives and board members at the second annual Nonprofit Awards Luncheon at the DoubleTree Hotel. Award recipients were honored for excellence, leadership, fiduciary responsibility, management practices, creativity, impact, and business acumen. Jodi DeAugustine, Vera House Board Member, was recipient of the Board Leadership Award. Jodi served on the Board of Directors of the former Rape Crisis Center of Syracuse prior to the merger of the Rape Crisis Center with Vera House in 2005. She continued on as a Vera House Board member and served as Board President from 2007-2009. Jodi currently serves as Chair of the Board Development Committee and is a member of the Vera House White Ribbon Campaign Steering Committee. In addition, Jodi received training as a Sexual Assault Volunteer and serves as a first responder and advocate to assault victims when they present at local hospitals or police agencies.

Congratulations, Jodi!
 

Domestic Violence Isn’t a

Laughing Matter

by Rabbi Rachel Ain

A few weeks ago I had my top two wisdom teeth removed. Unfortunately that procedure resulted in swelling and a large black and blue mark on the right side of my face. While some people approached me and casually asked what happened, numerous people—more than I can count—made jokes to both David and me, in the tone of “So, did David do that?” or, “Do we need to call Vera House for you?”

While I know that all of the people who said those things did not say them to offend me or David, allow me to share our reaction in order to make a broader point. In each instance, I looked at the person and just said, “That’s not funny, nor is it something to make light of” and simply walked away. Each time it was said, it stung, because David and I both know people who have been affected by domestic violence, and there are countless other, unnamed people who are victims and survivors as well. Domestic violence is a serious issue from which no community, including our Jewish one, is exempt. Joking comments are dismissive and mask a serious and often secret problem. By making light of a situation, we unfortunately make it harder for victims of abuse to speak up.

I recognize that most people, even those who joked about my bruises and swelling, are aware that domestic violence is an issue that needs to be addressed and responded to appropriately. Nevertheless I want to use this column to remind everyone how what seem to be innocent comments can be hurtful. I also want to remind you that there are excellent resources in our community for victims of abuse. The mission of Vera House, an organization in our community, is to end all domestic and sexual violence; to assist families in crisis; to support those affected by domestic and sexual violence to live safe, self-sufficient lives; to empower women and children; and to promote a culture of equality and respect in all relationships.

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