December 2018
Your monthly news & updates
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
Prevention and awareness are the focus of DOVES’ staff members Quinton Page, Dawn Hull, and Rosa Diaz this February as they embark on a mission to educate Big Bear High School freshmen on healthy relationships and the warning signs of abuse. Every February, DOVES provides BBHS Freshman Studies classes weekly presentations to educate students on everything from the red flags of abuse to bystander intervention.  Dating violence is becoming an increasingly common issue for adolescents, with one in three teens experiencing some form of dating abuse from a romantic partner before the age of 18. According to the CDC, teens who experience dating violence are more likely to exhibit antisocial behaviors, engage in unhealthy behaviors such as drug and alcohol use, experience depression and anxiety, and consider suicide. Many teens who experience dating violence keep it hidden from the very people who could help most: their parents and teachers. Teens are more likely to report experiencing dating violence to a friend before telling an adult. The key to prevention is to intervene early and increase awareness by having open, honest discussions. With the majority of young teens involved in a relationship, it's important to take the time to educate them about the dangers of abusive relationships. Teen dating violence is real and dangerous. DOVES is honored to contribute to the prevention of dating abuse in our community.  
Sharpening Trauma-Informed Skills through “Seeking Safety” Training
DOVES proudly assists all clients under a Trauma-Informed Care model, but what does that mean? Trauma Informed Care focuses on “What has happened to you?” not “What is wrong with you?” Executive Director Helen Adams, Shelter Manager Ellie Knapp, Outreach Advocate Dawn Hull, and Shelter Advocate Vanessa Ochoa recently attended a training on a prominent, evidence-based treatment intervention for clients with a history of trauma and substance abuse. Seeking Safety helps individuals whose lives have been impacted by trauma reduce or more effectively manage symptoms. The goal of this program is to help clients move beyond trauma by improving personal safety in relation to behaviors, thought patterns, relationships, and emotional regulation. The treatment focuses on building coping skills and psycho-education, rather than the reliving of past traumatic events. It was a wonderful opportunity to increase empathy and understanding of trauma while attaining valuable treatment resources. 
Lorrie's House Success Story
One recent client spent years going from one dysfunctional relationship to another. This resulted in numerous moves and emotional pain, not only for herself, but for her children. A combination of a safe environment, time and therapy, resulted in an awareness that she could live without the chaos that these relationships led to. She was provided with tools to deal with the feelings for a need for these. She left us a bit stronger, with more insight into herself and better ways to provide for her children.
Staff Members Honored for Over 5 and 10 Years of Service
At the January board meeting staff members were recognized for their services to DOVES. Pictured are: Tina Bratton, Shelter Advocate, 7 years; Helen Adams; Executive Director, 7 years; Phyllis Axton, Sr. Manager & HR Administrator, 10 years; Sharon Knapik, Shelter Advocate, 5 years; Ellie Knapp, Shelter Manager, 6 years; and Scott Waner, Chairman of the Board.

Not pictured, but also recognized was Sarah Garrison, Grant & Marketing Coordinator, 5 years.
Register Online Now! Internet Predators - Are Innocent Behaviors Putting Your Child a Risk?
We are pleased to be co-sponsoring this event with many of our collaborative community organizations!
Take an honest look at how technology can groom and seduce unsuspecting young people, even while the parent is watching. Register online at:
DOVES of Big Bear Valley, Inc. | 909-866-1546 | info@doves4help.org | www.doves4help.org