Advocacy and Resource Center helps hundreds of domestic violence victims every year

The upcoming month of October is Domestic Violence Awareness month, an observed month in the US to recognize the victims of domestic violence and unite advocates across the nation in their efforts to end domestic violence.   

One such local advocacy group is the Sheridan Advocacy and Resource Center. During an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Executive Director Yvonne Swanson spoke on their mission and commitment to the community. 

The Sheridan Police Department report over the past five years, the SPD has responded to an average of 103 intimate partner domestic calls each year. The department responded to 100 incidents of domestic violence in 2022.

Swanson and her team at the center encourage walk-ins, hold meetings in safe areas, assist victims to escape their abusers and help many people every year that have not reported the violence to authorities, or live in a household where the abuse is kept a secret. 

The advocates working within the walls of the center have been trained to assist at the victim’s discretion. Advocate Rachel Laramore said some individuals who walk through the doors of the center may feel as though they have lost their voice, no one has listened, the abuse has been kept secret or they are ashamed. She assured listeners, the advocates are providing a judgment-free service to anyone who has been victimized in the community, something many victims may not have had in the past.

If you need assistance, click here or call the Advocacy and Resource Center at 307-672-3222. If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911 or notify the Sheridan Police Department at 307-672-2413.