Lumina Alliance in SLO Illuminates the Hidden Costs of Intimate Partner Violence During Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM)

Local Nonprofit Hosts Community Events to Raise Awareness and Support Survivors

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Lumina Alliance is proud to announce its comprehensive campaign for Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) this October, dedicated to shining a light on the often-overlooked impact of intimate partner violence and raising awareness for underserved survivors in our community. This year’s theme emphasizes the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups, including undocumented individuals, transgender people, and those living with disabilities, who are often disproportionately affected by intimate partner violence.

“Lumina Alliance has spent more than 40 years serving as a bright light during the darkest of times for survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence,” said Jennifer Adams, CEO of Lumina Alliance. “This October, we are focusing on the hidden costs of domestic violence and the additional barriers that many survivors face as they seek safety and healing.”

DVAM Events and Opportunities for Community Engagement:
Fashions for a Purpose: October 5, 10 AM, Dana Adobe Cultural Center, Nipomo
A benefit fashion show and fundraiser showcasing community support for survivors of violence. Buy your tickets at my805tix.com.

Candlelight Vigil: October 10, 6-7 PM, Meathead Movers, San Luis Obispo
Join us for a moving tribute to survivors, where each candle represents 10 survivors served by Lumina Alliance last year. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Meathead Movers for graciously hosting this meaningful event, open to the public, and to Kramer Events for lighting up the building in purple throughout October in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

“Practical Magic” Screening: October 25, 7 PM, The Palm Theatre, San Luis Obispo
Join us for a special screening, raising awareness and funds for Lumina’s critical programs and supporting the Palm Theatre and SLO Film Center. Find tickets at thepalmtheatre.com

At Lumina Alliance, we rely on our community partners like Meathead Movers, The Palm Theatre, Kramer Events, and Fashions for a Purpose to help us do this important work. For over two decades, Meathead Movers has been a steadfast partner of Lumina Alliance, providing free emergency moves to survivors of domestic violence in their most vulnerable moments. “Our commitment to this cause is an integral part of who we are as a company,” said Aaron Steed, CEO of Meathead Movers. “Together with Lumina Alliance, we’ve helped countless survivors begin their journeys toward safety, and we are honored to be part of their healing process.”

Domestic violence often goes unrecognized for its lasting effects, both on survivors and the broader community. In addition to physical and emotional trauma, intimate partner violence can lead to chronic health conditions such as heart disease, reproductive issues, and long-term impacts on mental health. Alarmingly, 1 in 6 homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner, and more than 70% of intimate partner homicides occur after the victim has attempted to leave the relationship.

Join Us in Taking Action

Lumina Alliance invites the community to participate in these events, learn more about the impacts of domestic violence, and stand with survivors. Together, we can bring an end to gender-based violence and create a safer, more equitable community for all.

For additional details about Lumina Alliance’s DVAM events and how you can get involved, visit LuminaAlliance.org/blog or check out our events page on Facebook.

ABOUT LUMINA ALLIANCE

Lumina Alliance is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, born from the merger of RISE and Stand Strong in July 2021. The organization empowers those impacted by sexual and intimate partner violence through cutting-edge advocacy, healing, and prevention programs. Services include a 24-hour crisis and information line, case management, restraining order and legal assistance, emergency shelters, transitional housing, individual and group therapy, and comprehensive prevention education. For more information, visit www.LuminaAlliance.org

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