The Family Violence Project is the recipient this year of the Maine DOE’s seasonal fundraiser. Last week, Maine DOE presented a $1,100 check to the Augusta-based non-profit organization.
The Family Violence Project serves all victims of domestic violence in Kennebec and Somerset counties with services that include a 24/7 helpline, emergency shelters, support groups, court assistance, supportive housing as well as school and community education and awareness programs.
Department employees participated in various events during the holiday season in order to raise money including a cubicle decorating contest, themed raffle baskets and leadership challenges for the Family Violence Project.
Maine DOE employee Dede Gilbert, who led the holiday planning team says, “The Department’s holiday tradition has been to adopt a family from the Family Violence Project and have employees purchase items from their Christmas lists. This year we wanted to involve more of our employees as a way to generate more money. You could feel the holiday spirit in the office every day as employees participated in this worthy cause.”
Family Violence Project’s Development Director and Advocate Kelly Smith says, “As a non-profit, we rely on the kindness of our communities to help provide these critical services to those in need. We are grateful to the Maine Department of Education for supporting our efforts to end domestic violence. The more people who support our mission, the more lives we are able to save.”
To learn more about the Family Violence Project visit http://www.familyviolenceproject.org.