Domestic Violence Awareness Month is more than just a moment of reflection—it’s a powerful call to action. For thousands of survivors, it can be the turning point that brings hope, safety, and a path to healing. This year is particularly significant, as DVCCC served 1,886 victims/survivors of domestic violence in Chester County—the highest number of annual survivors the organization has ever served. Raising awareness not only shines a light on an issue too often hidden, but it also connects individuals with life-saving resources and support. This October, the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County (DVCCC) invites the community to stand with us, engage, and help create a future where everyone can live free from abuse.
Pints for a Purpose Happy Hour Fundraiser with Locust Lane Craft Brewery – A key event for this year is a partnership with Locust Lane Craft Brewery for a “Pints for a Purpose” Happy Hour Fundraiser. The event, happening on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, from 5-8 PM, will raise funds to support DVCCC’s children’s programs – and cash tips from the happy hour will be donated directly. The DVCCC children’s program provided counseling and advocacy services to 260 children who experienced or witnessed abuse and coordinated a holiday gift drive that supported over 130 families last year. Participation in this event helps ensure these essential services continue.
Third Annual Light the Night for Hope & Healing Event – On Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 6:45 PM, DVCCC will once again celebrate Domestic Violence Awareness Month with the Light the Night for Hope and Healing events across Chester County, including at the Historic Chester County Courthouse, Schuylkill Township Municipal Grounds, Kennett Borough Hall, and the gazebo in Downtown Coatesville. These events will feature presentations from local leaders and officials to honor those who have lost their lives to domestic violence and stand together to let those still living in fear know that they are not alone.
Fear (1996) at The Colonial Theatre – The Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville will host a film screening on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 7 PM, featuring the 1996 film Fear (rated R) with Reese Witherspoon and Mark Wahlberg. Following the film there will be a discussion with a panel of experts, including representatives from DVCCC, the Chester County ACEs Coalition, and the Chester County District Attorney’s Office, on the issue of dating abuse as portrayed in the film.
Other Campaign Highlights – In its ninth year, DVCCC’s “Paint the Town Purple” campaign aims to raise awareness by hanging purple ribbons throughout West Chester, Coatesville, Phoenixville, Kennett Square, Oxford, and Downingtown. Since its inception, the campaign has expanded to include the boroughs of Malvern and Parkesburg, as well as Lincoln University, Immaculata University, and West Chester University campuses. Be sure to keep an eye out for purple ribbons in a community near you!
Other key partnerships include:
- Libraries – Local libraries will feature book and resource displays all month long, including at Spring City, Coatesville, Downingtown, Avon Grove, and West Chester Public Libraries.
- Police Departments – Keep an eye out for awareness ribbon bumper magnets on vehicles from your local police departments and the Chester County Sheriff’s Office.
- Brandywine Valley SPCA –Shelter dogs at the Brandywine Valley SPCA will don purple bandanas as part of the “Paint the Shelter Purple” initiative.
- Coffee Shops – DVCCC’s hotline will be featured on “to-go” cup sleeves at local coffee shops, including Dia Doce and Saxbys in West Chester, Mary Pat’s Provisions in Kennett Square, Soltane in Phoenixville, and all County Cup locations.
For more information, visit www.dvcccpa.org/dvam
