Forbes House raising domestic violence awareness

As a domestic violence survivor herself, Mallory Babika is dedicated to raising awareness about this significant issue that impacts thousands of local individuals and families.

Babika is the new program manager at Forbes House, the only domestic violence shelter in Lake County.

“I initiated a big effort to raise awareness on domestic violence,” she said. “The commissioners signed a Proclamation declaring October

Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the county and 10 other mayors in cities throughout Lake County joined in on the efforts.”

Additionally, purple ribbons have been placed along Civic Boulevard in Mentor and on pillars at Madison Village City Hall. Wickliffe City Hall will be lit up purple all month and Downtown Willoughby, the Lake County Courthouse Clock Tower and Fairport Harbor Lighthouse will also be illuminated with purple lights, Babika said.

“My heart is so full,” she said. “If people are scared, I hope all the noise that we are making will encourage people to come forward. It is going to help a lot of people get healed.”

Besides the visual reminders of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Babika emphasized the importance of educating the community.

“We are speaking at every high school in Lake County,” she said.

The community outreach team also plans to visit some elementary schools.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the “Day of Unity” held in October 1981 and conceived by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children.

In October 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed.

“My heart is so full. If people are scared, I hope all the noise that we are making will encourage people to come forward. It is going to help a lot of people get healed.” — Mallory Babika, program manager at Forbes House