New coordinator plans Crisis Resource Center activities

With Domestic Violence Awareness Month just around the corner, Crisis Resource Center (CRC) domestic violence program coordinator Emory Mesa is focused on letting victims know what help is available in Steele County.

Three weeks into her new position, Mesa said she has not had much time to organize activities for October, but current plans include a display that will travel to the Owatonna Public Library, Blooming Prairie Public Library, and Steele County Administration Building. People may also see purple ribbons around town as a reminder of the toll domestic violence takes.

Mesa said one in four women will experience some form of domestic violence during her lifetime. Men can also be victims, she said.

The CRC is often the first place a victim turns to, she said. The center can begin the process to get the victim out of harm’s way by helping with legal resources such as filing an order for protection or restraining order. Once the information is filed, she said, a judge will typically rule on the request and both parties will be notified the next day if filed before a weekend.

While the center does not offer counseling or shelter for victims, it does have a list of resources that can provide those services, she said.

Abuse can be either verbal or physical, Mesa said. Physical abuse often comes after mental abuse, she said, and the victims often feel isolated and away from their family and friends. The victim also often makes excuses for the situation.

Even though CRC does not provide counseling, two support groups, one for women and one for children ages 4 to 12, provide an opportunity for victims to talk about their experiences.

While helping victims escape domestic violence is the CRC's primary job, Mesa said, she also realizes the importance of educating the public, as many people may not realize how common domestic violence is or how they can support individuals in those situations.

The display traveling through the county in October, she said, will also include a community declaration against domestic violence.

Mesa also said she is willing to come and talk to any group or organization about the problem of domestic violence and how to help.

The CRC also needs volunteers to help answer the crisis line phones, she said.