Join Steve Jurrens and Dorene Foster for a critical and inspiring conversation with Shona Marshall, Outreach Coordinator for The Beacon Center. In recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this episode dives into the essential, 24/7 work The Beacon Center performs for the Watertown community and the surrounding five counties.

Marshall clearly outlines the free, comprehensive services provided by the non-profit—from emergency shelter and legal advocacy to case management and a family visitation center. The discussion confronts the difficult realities of domestic and sexual violence, stressing that abuse is not always visible and can include mental and emotional control over financial and social life.

Marshall provides a powerful perspective on why leaving an abusive situation is so complex and offers encouragement and practical advice for victims, emphasizing that support is always available, no matter how many times a person seeks help. She also highlights the Beacon Center's strong community partnerships and vital outreach work, including educating students on high school dating violence.

If you or someone you know is struggling, this interview shares essential information on the resources available and why the community's consistent, non-judgmental support is so crucial.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation:

• Comprehensive Support: The Beacon Center provides a holistic suite of services, including 8 apartments for emergency shelter, case management, and legal/medical advocacy.

• The Power of Words: Marshall emphasizes that mental and emotional abuse can be as detrimental, if not more so, than physical violence.

• A Difficult Journey: Listeners gain an understanding of why it statistically takes a victim multiple attempts to leave an abuser, underlining the necessity of consistent, non-judgmental community support.

• 24/7 Crisis Line: The number to their continuously operating crisis line is shared for immediate assistance.

• Community Engagement: Learn how simple acts, like wearing purple or participating in events like the pumpkin contest, help raise vital awareness and funds.