Combee Center launches teal bows initiative to raise awareness for sexual assault month

The City of North Augusta held its Power Hour and Council Meeting on February 3, 2025, focusing on community awareness initiatives and local governance. A significant portion of the meeting featured April Jordan from the Combee Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting victims of domestic violence and sexual assault across six South Carolina counties, including Aiken.

Jordan highlighted February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and announced an upcoming conference aimed at addressing disclosures of sexual abuse. This event is free and open to the public, with experts from across the state participating. She emphasized the importance of raising awareness through community engagement, particularly through the display of teal bows along Georgia Avenue in April, which will signify Sexual Assault Awareness Month. These bows will be accompanied by informational cards to educate the public about the issue.

The council members expressed their support for the initiative, noting the visibility of the bows and the positive inquiries they generate from the community. Jordan mentioned that while tracking the direct impact of these awareness efforts can be challenging, the Combee Center has received calls and social media engagement from residents seeking more information.

The meeting also included a moment of reflection for victims of recent tragedies, including a plane crash that claimed multiple lives. The council members participated in a prayer and pledged to continue their work for the citizens of North Augusta.

As the meeting progressed, the council approved the minutes from the previous sessions and prepared to recognize community members for their contributions. The discussions underscored the city's commitment to addressing domestic violence and fostering community awareness through collaborative efforts.