We are currently seeking applicants for part-time and full-time Women’s Advocate positions. Ideal candidates will have a bachelor’s degree in a social services or related field and a commitment to assisting victims of domestic violence in our community. If you are interested, please submit a cover letter and resume to Eva Rousey at erousey@nwaws.org or by mail:

NWA Women’s Shelter
Attn: Eva Rousey
PO Box 1059
Rogers, AR 72757

No phone calls, please.

Kelly Zega (right) with Cox Communications opens the Computer Center with Melanie Palmer, Executive Director

This fall, we opened the Cox Communications Computer Center at the Northwest Arkansas Women’s Shelter. Funded by Cox, this center now offers 24-hour computer access to our clients for resume building, job searches, educational resources for children, and much more. It has now been open for 2 weeks. We asked our clients how they feel about the new Center, and here is what they said:

“I have found the computer lab to be EXTREMELY helpful. 1. I can look up directions for job interviews. 2. I can access jobs online. 3. In the middle of the night when unable to sleep, it is my safe haven. 4. Being able to print off paperwork to help my court case. 5. It keeps my mind engaged since google is at my fingertips. 6. No music around unless on YouTube, and music heals. 7. I can be in contact with loved ones even if they do not know of my location. 8. I feel safe using it and wouldn’t go to the library if it was the only option available. 9. Keeps kids busy for a little bit. 10. Some people use it as a church service since not all churches are open and local when needed.”

“It has been so great to be able to just go and use the computers anytime needed. They are so helpful and my kid loves getting to play games and listen to music. I think it was one of the best things the shelter could have gotten.”

“Helped me get in contact with the lady I am going to stay with. Seeing as how I don’t know anything about [this area] it has been really helpful.”

“It has been very helpful. I have been able to look for apartments, jobs, and schools. And it was way easier having it here than having to walk to the library.”

“It helped in G.E.D. and job search and listening to motivational music and quotes of the day. It has empowered me to improve!”

“Very helpful–I am able to search for jobs and apply when I am able. Great contribution to the women in need and starting over, given that now most applications are online.”

Thank you, Cox Communications, for providing this much-needed resource to our clients!

We were honored this week to be able to participate in a discussion with Mayor Lioneld Jordan in Fayetteville about domestic violence in our community. Many thanks to Mayor Jordan for bringing this issue forefront during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. You can check out the YouTube video here:  http://youtu.be/JX-OP0P1Vnw

"Hope"

When asked to paint a picture of what “Hope” looks like, a child in one of our support groups painted this picture of the door to our shelter.

Child abuse and domestic violence are closely intertwined. Studies have found that of those who abuse their partners, 65% also physically and/or sexually abuse the children. We shelter approximately 250 children per year, many of whom are victims of abuse themselves. The transformations that we often see in these children are truly inspiring. Getting children the help they need makes all the difference.

This article examines a new study from the Centers for Disease Control on the economic cost of child abuse. Many thanks to the Southern Region National Child Protection Center and the Children’s Advocacy Center of Benton County for getting the word out about this study and the devastating effects of child abuse.

If you suspect child abuse, please call the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-XHPHRlWZk

We offer a dynamic work environment, competitive benefits, and the chance to change lives in our community. Please help us spread the word!

Dennis Ferguson and Jeff Thacker grilling hot dogs for lunch

NWAWS supporters Krista Khone, Leslie Folsom, and Sarah Phipps

Board Member Robin Miller helps hang clothing

Store Manager Sandy Watts and NWAWS supporter Jennifer Sharp

The Thrift Store is located at 1639 N. Arkansas Street in Rogers. We are open from 10am – 5pm Monday – Saturday and accept donations Mondays and Thursdays from 10am – 4pm and Saturdays 10am – noon. We specialize in high quality clothing and household goods. Stop by and shop with us! Call us at 479-621-6116 for more information.

If you love vintage clothing and housewares, visit us on June 2nd for the Grand Re-Opening of our Thrift Store! We invite you to see all the changes that we have made to the store. Come have a hot dog and say hello!

We are proud to announce that Eva Rousey, our Assistant Director, has been named the 2012 Crime Victim Advocate of the Year by the Arkansas Crime Victims Reparations Board. She accepted the award at the Clinton Library in Little Rock on April 25 as part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.

Eva receives the award at the Clinton Library.

In her 10 year tenure at the shelter, Eva has coordinated safe shelter and support services to thousands of people in Northwest Arkansas.

Congratulations, Eva!

Food will be served and a cash bar available. The Claudia Burson Trio will be providing entertainment.

Tickets are $30 and available online or by calling NWAWS at 479-246-9999.