DVI launches Men Against Abuse campaign to raise funds, awareness

One in three women and one in four men will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes.

Now, Domestic Violence Intervention (DVI) of Lebanon County has launched a fundraising campaign to raise awareness and unite men against domestic violence in the local community.

“DVI is inviting 100 men or men’s groups to come together and make a public statement that domestic violence is unacceptable in our community,” a release from the organization explains. “For $100, you can make a donation to DVI on behalf of yourself, a group or in memory of a friend or loved one.”

The names of all contributors and the people they have named with their donation will be listed in print and online local news media around Father’s Day, as well as on DVI’s social media pages, the release said.

“By lending your names as part of our inaugural event, you will be taking a stand in a very important way,” the release added. “It is our hope that this campaign will grow and become an annual declaration, inspiring others to learn more about domestic violence and create a local men’s movement to raise awareness and unite with DVI to help prevent it.”

Within the last year, DVI helped 1,200 victims in Lebanon County through its crisis hotline, shelter, counseling, support group and advocacy programs, according to the release.

DVI has been serving domestic-violence victims and their children in Lebanon County for more than 30 years. The organization provides 24-hour crisis intervention and shelter, legal advocacy, supportive services, housing advocacy, a community support group, public education and community outreach. All services are free and confidential.

Donations to the campaign may be made via check payable to DVI of Lebanon County, PO Box 42, Lebanon, PA 17042 or online.

Anyone who needs help can call DVI’s 24-hour hotline at (717) 273-7190.