Washington County agencies celebrate survivors, recognize community advocates at Eastport event

Add Us On GoogleAdd as a preferred source on Google

EASTPORT, Maine (WABI) - Four agencies that serve survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault gathered this weekend to host Recognition Days, an event honoring community members who support survivors in Washington County.

Next Step Domestic Violence Project, AMHC Sexual Assault Services, Indian Township Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services, and Peaceful Relations collaborated to organize the event.

10 honorees recognized for service

Ten people were honored at Saturday’s event for their work supporting survivors. Honorees included law enforcement officers, forensic nurses and a school social worker, among others.

Advocates said a coordinated community response is the most effective approach to providing services in rural areas like Washington County.

What organizers said

Kelly Brown, executive director of Next Step Domestic Violence Project, said the event was focused on the people who help survivors feel supported.

“It was really about recognizing all of those people who help us to engage, support, and to let survivors know that they’re not alone,” Brown said. “In Washington County we have to have a coordinated community response, and we were recognizing those people who are part of that safety plan.”

Sussan Coley, a member of the Next Step Domestic Violence Project Board of Directors, said the event highlighted the range of services available to survivors.

“There is hope,” Coley said. “These magnificent women are answering the telephone and answering the hotline. They are going to pick up the victims. There are shelters that appreciate the shelters and pets... This was the most beautiful thing I’ve attended for decades.”

Organizers said they hope to make “Recognition Days” an annual event.

Resources

For more information on services available to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Washington County, contact any of the four participating agencies: