Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is observed each October to bring attention to domestic violence and its profound effects on victims, survivors, families, and communities. Established in October 1981 as a national “Day of Unity,” DVAM has since become an annual event that unites advocates across the nation in the fight to end domestic violence. Throughout the month, communities and advocacy organizations across the country join forces to raise awareness of the signs of abuse, provide vital resources to leaders and policymakers, and share survivor stories to inspire change and action.

Thankfully, Partnership Against Domestic Violence (PADV) is a leading force in this critical work. PADV’s mission is to end the crime of domestic violence and empower survivors to rebuild their lives. With unwavering dedication, PADV employs a holistic approach that integrates prevention, outreach, and advocacy to create safer communities across Atlanta, Gwinnett, and Fulton counties. PADV’s team of community outreach advocates provides year-round education and resources, hosting a variety of training sessions and tabling events to inform and empower community members. Their Prevention and Outreach team also tailors these trainings to meet the specific needs of students, employees, and organizations, providing essential tools that foster awareness and proactive intervention.

Domestic violence affects every aspect of a survivor’s life, from emotional well-being and physical safety to financial stability. To address these needs, PADV offers a comprehensive range of support services, including a 24-hour crisis line, emergency shelters, legal advocacy, supportive housing projects, and specialized programs like dating violence prevention for young people. Each year, PADV serves over 10,000 individuals, providing not only safe shelter but also restorative support that helps survivors regain their sense of power and control. PADV’s largest annual fundraiser, the Hearts with Hope Gala, raises essential funds to support these life-changing services. Brownieland Pictures was honored to partner with PADV to create video content for their virtual gala during the pandemic, helping to amplify PADV’s mission to end intimate partner violence and support survivors across our community.

This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we invite you to learn more about PADV’s impactful work, join the movement to end domestic violence, and help build a safer future for all. Read on to hear more from PADV’s President and CEO, Katha D. Blackwell, about their inspiring efforts and commitment to ending domestic violence.

Next year marks a monumental milestone for Partnership Against Domestic Violence (PADV) as we celebrate 50 years of dedication to empowering survivors and preventing the devastating impact of domestic violence. Since our inception in 1975, PADV has been a lifeline for countless individuals and families, providing critical services to those fleeing abusive situations and working tirelessly to create a community free from violence.

Throughout the years, PADV has expanded its services to meet the complex needs of survivors. From emergency shelters and supportive housing to therapeutic counseling and prevention programs, our goal has always been to save lives and foster environments where individuals feel safe, supported, and valued. As we look ahead, PADV remains committed to evolving our services to continue impacting lives and helping survivors rebuild with resilience and hope.

For immediate assistance, please reach out to our 24-hour crisis line at 404-873-1766. Learn more about our services and how you can join us in our mission at [padv.org](https://padv.org). 

Here’s to 50 years of making a difference – and many more to come!”