Domestic Violence: Many Support Services Available Locally

October is Domestic Violence Awareness month and it’s an opportunity for local agencies to highlight the range of services available to those fleeing domestic violence situations.

For the past 40 years SPAN (Safehouse Progress Alliance for Non-Violence) has been providing a range of servcices in Boulder and Broomfield counties, from crisis intervention to shelter, legal advocacy and outreach counseling services. They offer victims of domestic violence support and services needed to provide safety, hope and healing.

Alicia McMahon knows firsthand the value of having these services available. As a Domestic Violence Survivor she arrived at the shelter with a baby and a toddler and just a few dollars in her pocket.

McMahon experienced escalating physical abuse at the hands of her ex-husband, but she also suffered pyschological and emotional abuse which made it difficult for her leave the situation. When she went to the shelter and accessed the services at SPAN she was able to realize the extent of the abuse. “The second I got in I realized how warped the relationship was but when I was in it I thought it was something I could fix.”

Through SPAN she was able to access legal services, counseling and housing support, which enabled her to get on her feet and access employment.

“I would not be in the position I am today if I didn’t get their help.”

Alicia McMahon is the keynote speaker at a special reception commemorating SPAN’s 40 years of community service on Thursday, October 10, 6-7:30 pm.

McMahon is the author of My Nana’s Voice (released this month) and has repeatedly expressed gratitude to SPAN for helping her gain independence when she was a young mom with an infant and toddler.  “I found myself pretty much homeless with two babies, a diaper bag and $13 in my pocket.”

24-HOUR CRISIS HOTLINE 303.444.2424 OR EMAIL [email protected].