October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In observance of this month, the Grand County Sheriff’s Office is recognizing those who are victims of domestic violence, as well as the dedicated work done by Grand County Advocates for a Violence-Free Community.

According to the Office of Family Violence Prevention and Service, during this month “victim advocates, allied professionals, survivors of abuse, their loved ones, and the surrounding community come together to mourn the lives lost to domestic violence, celebrate the progress that has been made to end this epidemic, and connect with others working to create change.”

Domestic violence is a pattern of abuse in a relationship, where one partner tries to gain power and control over another intimate partner. This includes physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence, emotional abuse and other controlling behaviors.

“We are thankful to have the enduring support for those experiencing this type of victimization and crisis in their lives through Grand County Advocates,” the Grand County Sheriff’s Office stated.

Advocates is a nonprofit volunteer-based organization whose mission is to end domestic and sexual violence in the community. They serve individuals in both Grand and Jackson counties.

The sheriff’s office stated that Advocates provides extensive victim support services, information, prevention education and community awareness. They can provide victims with emergency safehousing, courtroom advocacy, relocation assistance and more.

“Unfortunately, domestic violence and sexual assault is something that happens everywhere and can happen to anyone regardless of gender, age, or sexual orientation,” Karen Crabb, executive director for Advocates, stated. “The entire team at Advocates is dedicated to providing confidential, local services to the Grand County community.  We hope that anyone who has been victim to domestic violence or sexual assault knows that there is help and support available.”

The Advocates also offered events this month. On Oct. 21, the Advocates hosted a Self Care Timeout at A Step in Thyme in Fraser. They will offer a Domestic Violence Response & Investigation Training at Sun Outdoors on Oct. 25 at 8 a.m. This training is available for law enforcement, prosecutors, victim services and allied professionals.

“Victims of domestic violence are often understandably very scared to share the truth. They may fear speaking up could cause more harm, that others will not believe them, and of others getting involved,” Grand County Sheriff Brett Schroetlin stated. “If you, or a loved one, are experiencing violence in any setting, I encourage you to reach out to a safe place like Grand County Advocates to get support. The safety of the public is my priority and this includes abuse of any kind.”

If you need help, call the Grand County Advocates’ 24-hour confidential crisis line at 970-725-3412; always 911 in an emergency. Learn more at GCAdvocates.org.