A recent survey has shown that undocumented victims of abuse are not seeking help from law enforcement or from domestic violence outreach centers to obtain restraining orders. In the survey, 78 percent of advocates reported that survivors had expressed concerns about contacting police. Similarly, in March, LAPD Police Chief Beck said that victims of sexual assault are not reporting crimes because of fear of being deported. 

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DOVES staff was grateful to have the opportunity to facilitate a discussion amongst senior classes at Big Bear High School. DOVES’ Program Manager met with three separate classes of seniors and talked about healthy and abusive relationships. The students lead the conversation, and were able to express their own thoughts and feelings about the subject. It was a great time to cover these topics, as it was the week leading up to prom. We were happy to hear teachers report that after the DOVES staff member had left, the students continued the discussion amongst themselves. 

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This last month has seen a great deal of physical improvements around the house. Staff and clients are very excited about the changes: we were able to get new blinds in the dining room, living room, and the room next to our laundry room.  We also have new carpet in the office and our perimeter fence has been stained. This has never been done and it really looks fabulous. Thank you so much to Ken for tackling this job.

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Staff Member Dianne Bertsch Celebrates 25th Anniversary With DOVES

Dianne came to Big Bear after her two children were raised and is now a grandmother to five grand daughters and a great grandmother to three grand children, which has provided her great joy. 

Twenty five years ago the DOVES office was in the shelter and our hotline was all volunteer based. Dianne taught a group class on budgeting and says working for DOVES helped her learn and grow personally. Her favorite memory was when she saw a former client in the super market and the client told her, "I wouldn't have made it if it wasn't for you."

Dianne said she is pleased with how our organization has grown and how we help more people, including teens.

We are forever grateful to her long lasting impact on our organization and community!