The Ms. Molly Foundation has worked to support victims of domestic violence since 1996 and we’re proud to have raised more than $1 million for this important cause. So much more needs to be done and we’re committed to raising awareness and financial support for more than 100 shelters and safe houses again this year!
“Everyone has a right to peaceful coexistence, the basic personal freedoms, the alleviation of suffering, and the opportunity to lead a productive life…”
— President Jimmy Carter
Molly Maid franchise owners around the country get involved in National Domestic Violence Awareness Month in several ways including fund-raising events, collecting personal care items from customers, donating a portion of every cleaning, educating the public about signs of abuse and support for victims through public relations, marketing materials and social networks. Here’s a glimpse at some creative fundraising efforts going on this month:
Walk A Mile In Her Shoes
Recently, Jeff and Caren Endriss, who own Molly Maid of the Treasure Coast in Stuart, FL., participated in Safespace’s Walk a Mile in Her Shoes® event. Jeff wore women’s red stilettos for the one-mile walk, as did several men who totally reject any type of violence toward women.
SafeSpace is a 501© non-profit United Way organization serving victims of domestic abuse in Indian River, St. Lucie and Martin Counties, Florida. In addition to providing emergency shelter with two 24-bedroom facilities, SafeSpace provides outreach services to individuals who have not entered a shelter but whose lives are being affected by domestic violence.
Disco Magic 2011
Donna Reilly, owner of Molly Maid of Central Anne Arundel County in Arnold, MD., is a co-chair of this year’s Disco Magic event. Attendees will dress up on Oct. 21 in their best 1970’s garb as they bid on live and silent auction items with proceeds supporting programs for women and children who are victims of domestic violence.
Donna partners with the YWCA who provides the following support services:
- Arden House–Anne Arundel County’s only domestic violence safe shelter.
- Domestic violence & sexual assault hotlines.
- Counseling services.
- Legal representation and advocacy.
- Hospital accompaniment for sexual assault victims.
- Abuse Intervention Program focused on perpetrators of domestic violence both male and female.
Molly Maid Home Office Auction
Each year, the Home Office in Ann Arbor, Mich. hosts a live and silent auction as well as catered breakfasts, pink and purple dress up days, and casual attire days for sale leading up to the event. Employees donate everything from homemade lasagnas and cookie Fridays to executives’ Florida condo vacations and the office team can bid on the items. The Oct. 14 auction raised more than $15,000 and a portion of the proceeds will benefit SafeHouse Center and LACASA of Livingston County.
All October and year-long activities are appreciated and the funds truly make a difference in people’s lives. During the Home Office auction, Danessa Itaya, co-chairwoman of the Ms. Molly Foundation, shared how funds have been used by shelters including the following thank you letters:
“I love this place. It’s great and it is helping me get my life together. Thank God for places like this.” — Shelter resident.
“Cool, new underwear! Look, mom, I have underwear now!” — Boy, age 6, as he received a My Stuff Bag of personal items upon entering shelter.
In commenting about the youth support group: “I can be with kids who’ve been through what I’ve been through.”
To find out more and support the Ms. Molly Foundation, visit our website.
