Full story

My name is Arlene Wallis.  I am the creator and founder of Joy Does Come in the Morning and The Blooming Point.  I am also a Domestic Violence Survivor.

Did you know:
·  A woman is beaten every 9 seconds in the US.
· Intimate partner violence is the leading cause of female homicide and injury related deaths during pregnancy
·Number of individuals who will be victims of severe violence 1 in 4
·  Number of men who will be victims of severe violence 1 in 7
·  Men who were exposed to intimate partner violence as children are 3-4 times more likely to perpetrate it as adults than those who were not exposed.
· 2 in 5 gay or bisexual men with experience intimate partner violence
· 50 lesbian women will experience domestic violence (not necessarily intimate partner violence 21 LGBT people murdered in 2013 50% were people of color
· 81% of women are stalked by a current/former partner and have been abused by that partner
· Black women experience intimate partner violence at rates of 35% or higher than white women
· 2.6x is the amount transgender person of color is to become a victim than a non LGBT person         

 

AND THE LIST GOES ON!

As I approach my 50th birthday, I have had the opportunity to reflect on the events that have taken place in my life including eviction, homelessness, lack of food and resources, almost losing a job, lack of daycare and very limited help from family who felt I brought my situation upon myself.  All during this reflection, I felt it was time for me to give back because others need to know that they are not alone. 

I am hosting an upcoming event celebrating survival and life called 50 Shades of Blue.  The event is to take place on November 7, 2015.  Many of the attendees (50-100) will be survivors of this horrible act.  My target groups to support are The House of Ruth and the Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence.  As I am not a 501(c) 3 Non Profit, funding for this event is coming from my own pocket.  I have been given a purpose and a gift that I feel is to be shared with others.  My goal with this event is to offer resources, fellowship, food, fun and reflection.  My ultimate goal is to turn this into an annual event, maybe even a conference where survivors others can come together, brainstorm, exchange information, learn from different organizations and celebrate life as a survivor. 

This is where you come in.  I need your help.  Though I am driven to make this event a success, I still stand in need of sponsorship and donations.  Many of the resources needed are out of reach due to funding.  Your contribution can make this event and possible future events a success but will also allow me to continue research for resources, printing, travel, meetings, speakers and more! 

I look forward to a positive response from you regarding this request. Have a wonderful day!

Please take a moment to read my story.  Though consolidated, it gives you an idea that DV is real and takes it toll.  I chose to come back and take a stand!

http://ladyblue1.com/you-brought-it-on-yourself/