DECATUR, GEORGIA (25 March 2013)—The Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence (GCADV) announced today the appointment of Jan Christiansen as its next Executive Director. GCADV provides quality support, comprehensive training, and legislative advocacy for domestic violence agencies, advocates, and communities statewide.

 Ms. Christiansen has extensive experience in the field of domestic violence and knows GCADV and the Georgia community well.  She has served as the Associate Director for GCADV since 2009 and filled the Interim Executive Director role since December 2012.

 “I am delighted to be joining GCADV as its next Executive Director,” Christiansen said. “I have enjoyed serving as both the Associate Director and the Interim Executive Director, and fully understand the challenges that lie before us. With those challenges we also have unique opportunities over the next few years to work with our wonderful members and allies to increase capacity on best practices for serving domestic violence survivors and to advocate for legislation that increases safety for survivors and sustainability of domestic violence programs that provide vital services in their local communities.  I feel privileged to have the chance to work for an organization and with people who are passionate about making a difference for domestic violence survivors and their communities.”

 “We are very grateful to former Executive Director Nicole Lesser for GCADV’s achievements during her tenure. We are thus fortunate, and greatly pleased, to have recruited an exceptional leader and manager as her successor. Moreover, by turning to an invested staff member who has already held a leadership role, we will ensure consistency and a smooth transition,” said Amy Weaver, current President of the GCADV Board of Directors.

 GCADV is the federally recognized source for expertise and training on the issue of domestic violence in Georgia. GCADV’s intent and constant focus is on recognizing the correlation between domestic violence, poverty, race, mental health, disability, immigration status and more.   As the clearinghouse for domestic violence organizations throughout Georgia, GCADV looks for solutions that acknowledge the dynamic, complex, and interconnected nature of the work that we do.

 Ms. Christiansen spent the first part of her career at local domestic violence organizations in Florida and Vermont, holding senior leadership positions before moving to Georgia to work with GCADV. Ms. Christiansen has previously held two Executive Director positions: Executive Director of Micah’s Place in Nassau County Florida from 2003-2007 and Executive Director of Women Helping Battered Women in Burlington, Vermont from 2008-2009.  Ms. Christiansen began her career in the Domestic Violence Movement in 1995 at Shelter House in Fort Walton Beach, Florida where she worked in various roles helping battered women until 2003.

 Nicole Lesser, former Executive Director, welcomed the appointment. “Jan Christiansen has been a dedicated and highly effective staff leader, and it is a great pleasure to know the board has chosen someone who is highly committed and experienced. She is the ideal person to take the organization into the next stage of its development.”

 Ms. Christiansen brings a wealth of senior management and domestic violence movement experience to this role. Jan Christiansen will fill the position immediately.

February 15, 2013

CONTACTS:

Kate Jay, Verizon Wireless, 678.339.4828, Kate.Jay@verizonwireless.com, @VZWKate

Jan Christiansen, GCADV, 404.209.0280, jchristiansen@gcadv.org

Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Verizon Wireless Come Together To Support Teen Dating Violence Education

Decatur and Alpharetta, Ga. –The Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence (GCADV) and Verizon Wireless have teamed up to call attention to the signs of unhealthy relationships during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and beyond.

The U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics reports that young people ages 12 to 19 experience the highest rates of relationship violence, abuse, and assault. Additionally the statistical information shows that people ages 18 and 19 experience the highest rates of stalking. In Georgia’s 2010 Fatality Review, findings showed that more than 52 percent of the victim cases reviewed from the project’s inception began their relationships when they were between the ages of 16 and 24.  Often, teen victims of dating violence mistake these unhealthy behaviors as a “normal” part of the relationship.

Because teen dating violence is a significant public health problem that should be addressed through early prevention and intervention efforts, Verizon Wireless and GCADV aim to educate Georgians on the various forms of dating violence, signs of potential violent behaviors, and  how to get help or help someone experiencing relationship abuse.

“GCADV’s commitment and efforts to raise awareness around the issue of teen dating violence, along with Verizon Wireless, is in direct relation with our core values of safety, survivor-centered responses, social change, collaboration, and our commitment to nonviolence.  As advocates and members of the community, it is important that we address all intimate partner violence and bring such issues to the forefront.  With such alarming information from the 2010 Fatality Review, it is imperative that we are proactive in educating and informing teens about dating violence and where they can turn to for help,” said Shenna Johnson, community resource coordinator, Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

In its commitment to teen dating violence awareness and prevention efforts, GCADV offers the following important information:

Dating violence is often only seen through the physical lens; however, it is important to know all the various forms of dating violence one may experience.  These include:

• Physical
• Emotional
• Sexual
• Digital

In addition to knowing the types of dating violence, it is important to recognize common signs seen in teen victims of dating violence. While these may vary on a case by case basis, common behaviors and signs include:

• Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities
• Changes in dress habits or behavior
• Bruises or injuries
• Changes to class schedules at school
• Constant concern generated by excessive texting or social media

Knowing how to help someone who may be experiencing dating violence and the resources available to them are also very important factors.  Supportive actions include:

• Supporting a friend’s courage to ask for help
• Letting them know you care
• Listening and believing what they tell you
• Letting them know that what they are experiencing isn’t their fault
• Knowing who to reach out to for assistance and safety

Recognizing that dating violence can include digital stalking and harassment, Verizon Wireless offers Georgia’s wireless customers these tips to protect themselves:

• Remember it’s okay to turn off your phone
• Remember you have the right to be alone and spend time with friends and family without your partner getting angry
• Be mindful when using check-ins like Facebook Places and Foursquare
• Know your privacy settings
• Create strong passwords
• Tell someone, such as a counselor or campus health official, if you are being harassed or physically harmed in your relationship. Consumers can also contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline for confidential help by dialing 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or simply by dialing #HOPE (#4673) from any Verizon Wireless phone.

“Dating abuse can come in many forms, including digital harassment through constant calling or texting or being deprived of the freedom to connect with friends,” said Jonathan LeCompte, Verizon Wireless Georgia/Alabama region president. “At Verizon Wireless we want to empower young people with knowledge to make good choices while enjoying all the advantages that modern technology has to offer.”

For more information on additional teen dating violence awareness and prevention resources, visit www.LoveIsNotAbuse.com, www.LoveIsRespect.org, www.thatsnotcool.com, www.facebook.com/GCADV or call the 24-Hour Statewide Domestic Violence Hoteline: 1-800-33-HAVEN (1-800-334-2836) V/TTY.

###

About GCADV

The Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence Inc. (GCADV) brings together member agencies, allied organizations and supportive individuals who are committed to ending domestic violence. Guided by the voices of survivors, we work to create social change by addressing the root causes of this violence. GCADV leads advocacy efforts for responsive public policy and fosters quality, comprehensive prevention and intervention services throughout the state. For more information, visit www.gcadv.org.

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s largest 4G LTE network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 98.2 million retail customers, including 92.5 million retail postpaid customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with more than 73,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD).  For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

Cherokee Family Violence Center has an employment opportunity

Title:   Legal Advocate

Job Summary:            The Legal Advocate helps clients move smoothly through the legal process.  The Legal Advocate also interfaces directly with the client and provides information, court monitoring, and moral support for abuse victims during the judicial proceedings.

Reports to:      Legal Services Coordinator

Level/Grade:  Full Time/Exempt

Positions Directly Supervised:           None

Essential Job Functions:

The following is a summary of the essential functions of the job.  The employee may perform other duties, both essential and non-essential, that are not mentioned below; and specific responsibilities may change from time to time.

Administer the Legal Advocacy Program by assisting clients in obtaining Temporary Protective Orders (TPOs) and at the final hearing.

• Assist victims of domestic violence in gathering necessary information for TPO hearings when necessary.
• Escort victims on an as needed basis to court procedures involving domestic violence issues to include but not limited to:  ex-parte hearings for TPOs, final TPO hearings, and at the request of the victim to criminal proceedings, grand jury appearances, bond hearings, and magistrate court.
• Coordinate with Superior Court Clerk’s Office, Judges and Sheriff’s Office in developing ongoing procedures and training programs that work to protect domestic violence victim’s rights and access to the judicial system inCherokeeCounty.
• Develop materials and brochures that inform victims of domestic violence of their rights under the Family Violence Act.
• Coordinate with local bar associations in developing a program whereby local attorneys will assist domestic violence victims in issues such as divorce, custody hearings, paternity, property issues and other issues arising from the victimization of domestic violence.
• Assist the Office of District Attorney and Solicitor General in gathering victim information on specified domestic violence cases.
• Conduct in-service training for local law enforcement, social service agencies, task force members and volunteers on legal changes and information concerning victims of domestic violence.
• Support activities of the Domestic Violence Task Force.
• Assist victims in filing for victim compensation, where eligible.
• Assist in the training of volunteers.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings and workshops

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Needed:

• Organizational, problem-solving and conflict resolution skills
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing
• Ability to handle crisis situations in a calm, deliberate manner
• Familiarity with the judicial process
• Knowledge of the legal issues regarding domestic violence
• Ability to handle multiple tasks

Education and Formal Training:

Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Social Services, or other related field

Work Experience:

Two years experience in the legal or domestic violence profession.

Previous court experience in the domestic violence field.

If interested please email you resume to Tommie@cfvc.org or tommieat@windstream.net

Deadline to apply: November 14, 2012

In response to a bill that was introduced in the Georgia House of Representatives that would allow criminal penalties for petitioners of protection orders who ‘violate’ their own orders, the IACP Victim Services Committee drafted a resolution that opposes such policies. At the 119th IACP Annual Conference held in San Diego last month, this resolution was adopted by the Association.

The resolution emphasizes that such bills/policies are harmful and counterintuitive and take a tool that is meant to minimize violence and protect victims of domestic violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault and uses it to punish them thus damaging trust in the criminal justice system. The Committee believes arrest of a petitioner can create victim reluctance to seek law enforcement help and increase victim isolation.

Additionally, arrest of victims bolsters the perpetrator’s power and control. Protection orders are meant to prohibit and proscribe certain actions by an abusive party. Arresting a petitioner shifts the focus from the actions of the perpetrators, who is clearly violating an order, to the actions of the victim. This creates a structure of limited accountability for the abuser and eliminates the repercussions for contacting the victim.

The resolution can also be found at HERE along with all resolutions adopted at this year’s Conference. This resolution should be disseminated to those who work on policy development and can also be used as a training tool for department members; it is imperative that we educate law enforcement about the potential harmful effects and ramifications of arresting victims for violations of protections orders. The crimes of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking are complicated and multifaceted.

For more information on all IACP violence against women tools, resources, and trainings, please visit: the IACP website.

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GCADV Partners with Saving Our Daughters to “Yell Confidence” and Raise Dating Violence Awareness and Action

Atlanta, GA (November 7, 2012) – Today the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence (GCADV) announces its partnership with Atlanta based teen empowerment organization Saving our Daughters (SOD).  The partnership will raise dating violence awareness and action amongst young women and teen girls through media, celebrity advocacy, and education.

Guided by the voices of survivors, the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence brings together member agencies, allied organizations and supportive individuals who are committed to ending domestic violence. It works to create social change by addressing the root causes of this violence, leading advocacy efforts for responsive public policy, and fostering quality, comprehensive prevention and intervention services throughout the state. To learn more about GCADV, visit www.gcadv.org.

Saving Our Daughters creates the tools to get teen girls discussing key issues and fired up to take the power away from bullying, (cyber, gossip, face-to-face,…), dating abuse, hate crimes, school violence, violence against women, and other esteem slayers. To learn more about Saving Our Daughters, visit www.savingourdaughters.org.

###

Victims of domestic violence, their loved ones, and concerned citizens are encouraged to learn more by calling Georgia’s 24-hour state hotline, 1-800-33-HAVEN (1-800-334-2836).

ATLANTA— State Representative Edward Lindsey (R-Atlanta) recently received the Legislative Champion Award from the Georgia Commission on Family Violence (GCFV).

“I am honored to receive this award from the Georgia Commission on Family Violence,” said Rep. Edward Lindsey. “The GCFV is a tireless advocate for Georgia’s families and I am proud to work with them to support and protect men, women, and children who are impacted by domestic violence.”

Rep. Lindsey receiving the Legislative Champion Award from GCFV representatives Amy Alvarez, Chuck Spahos, Judge Peggy Walker, and Greg Loughlin.

Rep. Lindsey received GCFV’s Legislative Champion Award for his ongoing leadership to make Georgia a safer place for women, children and men. Among Rep. Lindsey’s legislative successes in this area are the passage of HB 200 and HB 711, both of which he sponsored. HB 711 makes it easier for prosecutors to obtain the evidence necessary to convict abusers and provides greater privacy protections for victims that seek refuge in a family violence shelter. HB 200 toughens sanctions against human traffickers while providing trafficking victims with more pathways and resources to escape their entrapment.

Judge Stephen Kelley, a Superior Court Judge in the Brunswick Judicial Circuit and GCFV’s Chair, explained the importance of Rep. Lindsey’s contribution: “Ending family violence in Georgia requires vision, leadership and courage. Representative Lindsey consistently demonstrates those qualities. Again and again, he has done the right thing by partnering with domestic violence, sexual assault and child advocacy experts to speak passionately and effectively on behalf of women, children and men in Georgia. I am inspired by his leadership, and I believe that Georgia is a safer place because of his work.”

Loughlin added, “Georgia ranks sixth in the nation for men killing women. We need more men like Representative Lindsey to take a strong stand against family violence.”

“Representative Lindsey continues to be a strong advocate for Georgia’s domestic violence victims and survivors, and we are grateful for his ongoing commitment to providing a voice for women and children in the legislature,” said Amy Alvarez, vice president of development and marketing for Partnership Against Domestic Violence. “We are pleased to recognize Representative Lindsey with this award, and we call on additional civic and community leaders to follow his example and join the fight to end intimate partner violence.”

GCFV Past Chair Judge Peggy Walker, Legislative Chair Chuck Spahos, Executive Director Greg Loughlin and Amy Alvarez presented Rep. Lindsey with the award last night at a meet and greet event with constituents at 4219 Beverley Lane, Atlanta, Ga. 30342.

The GCFV is a state agency that was created by the Georgia General Assembly in 1992 to develop a comprehensive state plan for ending family violence in Georgia. House Speaker David Ralston appointed Rep. Lindsey to GCFV in 2010.

Representative Edward Lindsey was elected Majority Whip by the Republican Caucus, the fourth highest ranking position in House leadership, on December 17, 2009. He represents the citizens of House District 54, which includes portions of Atlanta. He was elected into the House of Representatives in 2004, and currently serves on the Rules, Appropriations, Education, Ethics, Industrial Relations, and Judiciary committees.

###

The Family Violence Director is responsible for the implementation and vision pertaining to the Family Violence (domestic violence shelter and 24 hour crisis line), Counseling, and Transitional Housing programs and is accountable for achieving the missions of those programs. This individual provides supervision, planning, implementation, and evaluation of the program and staff. They also collaborate with developing and maintaining budgets and writing and overseeing grants for programs.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists the CEO & Executive Director in the management of the day-to-day operations, and/or resolve issues in his/her absence in conjunction with the management team.
• Complies with all licensing requirements of state entities, including but not limited to the Governor’s Office of Children and Families, DHS, HIPPA, etc. including but not limited to overseeing the preparation and responses to adults, applications, operational plans, modifications, and managing the recertification process, if necessary.
• Participates in coalitions, task forces, and work groups.
• Manages the implementation of the YWCA’s operational policies and procedures.
• Oversees the coordination and development of policies and procedures.
• Assists in the organization and delivery of regular in-service training for all staff and volunteers.
• Oversees program evaluation and statistical data collection for grant purposes, contract requirements, and YWCA guidelines.
• Manages reporting on all grants which fund the YWCA of Northwest Georgia.
• Builds and maintains collaborations with other organizations, referral sources, and resources within the community.
• Conducts community outreach and education events regarding domestic violence, sexual assault, the YWCA, and other related topics.
• Ensures that the mission is the central theme of all programs.
• Other duties as assigned by the CEO & Executive Director.

NECESSARY SKILLS:

• Knowledge of grants and ability to track and monitor.
• Strong oral communication skills required to effectively communicate with a broad range of individuals.
• Strong written communications skills required to maintain quality documentation and effectively market the YWCA of NW Georgia.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize all aspects of the job.
• Ability to evaluate proposals, prepare budgets, and evaluate strategically.
• Strong problem solving skills required and must be a common sense thinker who can be a quick decision maker when necessary.
• Ability to work well with others in a team environment.
• Comfortable giving public presentations.
• Must display professionalism and leadership qualities when dealing with other organizations, volunteers, Board Members, and staff.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, and Access, and other statistical tracking software.
• May be required to lift boxes up to 25 lbs.

MINIMUM CREDENTIALS AND EXPERIENCE:

Master’s Degree (MSW, MPH) required. A minimum of five years of successful management experience in a social service setting preferable with three years of supervisory/managerial experience directly related to the field of domestic violence. Budget over site. Commitment to a client-centered approach to practice with victims of domestic violence; excellent team-building skills; sound financial management skills; ability to manage complex human resources situations fairly and effectively.

Please apply via email only. When applying, please submit both your resume and salary requirements.

Please click HERE for additional application instructions.

Today the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence (GCADV) and Mattress Firm announce a new partnership as they recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  During the month of October, communities and businesses are encouraged to support local efforts that assist victims in finding the help and healing they need, and to recommit to putting an end to domestic violence in America.

Mattress Firm has committed to making every bed a safe bed by donating 17 new mattresses to a local Atlanta shelter for immigrant and refugee victims of domestic violence.

“We’re so grateful to Mattress Firm for their contribution and for demonstrating what businesses can do to help break the cycle of domestic violence in our communities,” said Nicole Lesser, executive director of the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence. “All businesses can play a role to ensure that survivors of domestic violence know they are not alone, and that there are resources available to them.”

Over 100 Georgians lose their lives to domestic violence each year. Domestic violence is a leading cause of injury to women in Georgia between the ages of 15 and 44, with nearly one out of every three women in this age group being abused at least once by their partners during their lifetimes.

“Mattress Firm is proud to partner with GCADV in an effort to put an end to domestic violence in Georgia,” said Ebony LeFlore, district manager for Mattress Firm in Atlanta. “We are committed to providing victims the help and resources they need, and to supporting the health and well-being of our community.”

Guided by the voices of survivors, the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence brings together member agencies, allied organizations and supportive individuals who are committed to ending domestic violence. It works to create social change by addressing the root causes of this violence, leading advocacy efforts for responsive public policy, and fostering quality, comprehensive prevention and intervention services throughout the state.

Office of the Press Secretary

Presidential Proclamation — National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, 2012

NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH, 2012

- – - – - – -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

For far too long, domestic violence was ignored or treated as a private matter where victims were left to suffer in silence without hope of intervention. As we mark the 18th anniversary of the landmark Violence Against Women Act, authored by Vice President Joe Biden, we reflect on how far we have come. We have made significant progress in changing laws and attitudes, providing support to survivors, and reducing the incidence of domestic violence. But we also know that we have not come far enough, and that there is more work left to be done. During National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we stand with all those who have been affected by this terrible crime, recognize the individuals and groups who have stepped forward to break the cycle of violence, and recommit to putting an end to domestic violence in America.

Despite considerable progress in reducing domestic violence, an average of three women in the United States lose their lives every day as a result of these unconscionable acts. And while women between the ages of 16 and 24 are among the most vulnerable to intimate partner violence, domestic violence affects people regardless of gender, age, sexual orientation, race, or religion. Tragically, without intervention, children exposed to such violence can suffer serious long-term consequences that may include difficulty in school, post-traumatic disorders, alcohol and drug abuse, and criminal behavior.

My Administration remains committed to getting victims the help they need, from emergency shelter and legal assistance to transitional housing and services for children. We are also working to stop violence before it starts. Last year, agencies across the Federal Government held town hall meetings nationwide to promote men’s roles in ending violence against women. Through Vice President Biden’s 1is2many initiative, we built on that progress earlier this year by releasing a public service announcement that features professional athletes and other role models speaking out against dating violence. This April, I directed leaders throughout my Administration to increase efforts to prevent and combat domestic violence involving Federal employees and address its effects on the Federal workforce. Since August, the Affordable Care Act has required most insurance plans to make domestic violence screening and counseling available as a preventive service for women — without co-payments, deductibles, or other cost-sharing. And most recently, we developed a new initiative to reduce domestic violence homicides through high risk screening and linking victims with services. Moreover, my Administration looks forward to working with the Congress to strengthen and reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act.

While government must do its part, all Americans can play a role in ending domestic violence. Each of us can promote healthy relationships, speak out when we see injustice in our communities, stand with survivors we know, and change attitudes that perpetuate the cycle of abuse. We must also ensure that survivors of domestic violence know they are not alone, and that there are resources available to them. I encourage victims, their loved ones, and concerned citizens to learn more by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE, or by visiting www.TheHotline.org.

This month, let us renew our efforts to support victims of domestic violence in their time of greatest need, and to realize an America where no one lives in fear because they feel unsafe in their own home.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2012 as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I call on all Americans to speak out against domestic violence and support local efforts to assist victims of these crimes in finding the help and healing they need.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

Please resend any emails sent to GCADV staff between Sept. 6 and Sept. 12.  These emails likely have not been recovered by our server.

Thank you for your patience!