During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we honored those affected by abuse, support survivors, and reaffirmed our shared commitment to building a safer, more compassionate community.

My name is Sandy Marr, and I have been involved with C.A.R.E. of Atchison County for approximately 22 years. I began as a board member, became an advocate in 2005, and served in that role for 11 years. After retiring in 2016, I returned to the board and a volunteer covering the crisis phone on weekends and facilitate a weekly support group.

Through this experience, I have learned that abuse takes many forms and affects each victim differently. I was especially struck by the fact that verbal abuse can be as damaging as physical, sexual, or spiritual abuse – sometimes even more so. I have known victims who were choked, beaten, threatened, separated from their children, or trafficked. Others saw a beloved pet killed, feared being poisoned, suffered broken bones, or had a gun held to their head. These are only some of the situations I encountered during my first 10 years with C.A.R.E.

People often ask why a victim does not simply leave. The reality is complex. Threats, financial dependence, concern for children’s safety, limited family support, and an abuser’s need for control can make leaving both difficult and dangerous. When a household is already struggling to make ends meet, the prospect of supporting oneself and one’s children alone may seem impossible.

Abuse was once treated as a private family matter. Although greater awareness has encouraged people to speak out and seek solutions, abuse continues. Confronting a victim or an abuser may increase the danger, so every response must put the victim’s safety first. Our community can help by supporting C.A.R.E.’s trained, confidential services. Volunteers help maintain weekend crisis phone coverage, while donations sustain counseling, crisis intervention, on-scene assistance, and other essential services. Because C.A.R.E.’s grants were substantially reduced this year, dependable community support is especially important.

Please stand with C.A.R.E. by volunteering, donating, or sharing information about its services. Every contribution of time or financial support helps C.A.R.E. respond with compassion and practical assistance. For someone experiencing abuse, one call can be the first step toward safety, healing, and hope.

To volunteer, donate, or request assistance, call C.A.R.E. at 660-744-9966.

Sandy Marr