Monroe County Proclaims October 2025 Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Commends Safe Monroe Efforts
October 01, 2025 | Monroe County, Pennsylvania
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The Monroe County Board of Commissioners has officially proclaimed October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat domestic violence in the community. This resolution comes in recognition of the pervasive nature of domestic violence, which affects individuals across all demographics, and the critical need for awareness and support for survivors.
During the meeting, Lauren Peterson, the executive director of Safe Monroe, shared impactful statistics from the organization’s recent work. From July 2024 to June 2025, Safe Monroe provided 2,387 hours of counseling and 230 hours of legal advocacy to 827 individuals affected by abuse. The organization also offered shelter to 56 adults and children, totaling 6,304 nights, and responded to over 1,870 calls through its 24-hour crisis hotline. Peterson emphasized the importance of community support in addressing domestic violence, stating, “We cannot do this work in a vacuum. It really does require all of us to stand together.”
The meeting also highlighted the need for volunteers to support the hotline, which operates continuously, ensuring that trained personnel are available to assist those in crisis at any time. Peterson noted that the training for volunteers is extensive, requiring about 80 hours, but it is essential for preparing them to handle sensitive situations effectively.
In addition to the proclamation, the commissioners discussed upcoming events, including a candlelight vigil on October 23, which coincides with Purple Thursday, a day dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence. Community members are encouraged to wear purple in support of the cause.
The meeting also touched on other community matters, including the recognition of local police officer Christopher Shelley for his contributions and the unveiling of a portrait honoring retiring President Judge Arthur Zulek.
As Monroe County observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the commitment to supporting survivors and raising awareness remains a priority, with community involvement playing a crucial role in fostering a safer environment for all residents.
During the meeting, Lauren Peterson, the executive director of Safe Monroe, shared impactful statistics from the organization’s recent work. From July 2024 to June 2025, Safe Monroe provided 2,387 hours of counseling and 230 hours of legal advocacy to 827 individuals affected by abuse. The organization also offered shelter to 56 adults and children, totaling 6,304 nights, and responded to over 1,870 calls through its 24-hour crisis hotline. Peterson emphasized the importance of community support in addressing domestic violence, stating, “We cannot do this work in a vacuum. It really does require all of us to stand together.”
The meeting also highlighted the need for volunteers to support the hotline, which operates continuously, ensuring that trained personnel are available to assist those in crisis at any time. Peterson noted that the training for volunteers is extensive, requiring about 80 hours, but it is essential for preparing them to handle sensitive situations effectively.
In addition to the proclamation, the commissioners discussed upcoming events, including a candlelight vigil on October 23, which coincides with Purple Thursday, a day dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence. Community members are encouraged to wear purple in support of the cause.
The meeting also touched on other community matters, including the recognition of local police officer Christopher Shelley for his contributions and the unveiling of a portrait honoring retiring President Judge Arthur Zulek.
As Monroe County observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the commitment to supporting survivors and raising awareness remains a priority, with community involvement playing a crucial role in fostering a safer environment for all residents.
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