What is Domestic Violence Awareness Month?

For over 35 years, YWCA has been offering a wide range of services to victims of domestic violence, including: culturally specific services for immigrant, refugee and BIPOC communities; referrals to partner organizations and shelters; referrals to YWCA’s transitional housing programs; court- and community-based advocacy; crisis intervention; safety planning and danger assessment; and tangible assistance with housing and other essential basic needs.

Domestic violence does not discriminate and can affect anyone, regardless of culture, race, age, income, education, religion, or sexual orientation. YWCA is committed to providing services to victims of domestic violence all year, but focuses advocacy efforts in the community during the month of October in recognition of the national Domestic Violence Awareness Month campaign. This October, YWCA Knoxville and the Tennessee Valley launches its 8th annual Domestic Violence Awareness Month campaign. All October long, YWCA will conduct educational trainings through Domestic Violence 101 sessions, painting the streets in purple ribbons and partnering with local businesses through percentage nights.

Wear Purple With YW!

Join YWCA in wearing a "We Believe You" shirt all year long in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Add to your purple wardrobe with these tees available for purchase here! Over 30% of the proceeds are donated back to YWCA to support our life-saving domestic violence support services.

2021 Proclamations

We are thankful for local and national leaders releasing proclamations recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month! Click on each of the following to view their proclamation.

President Joe Biden

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee

Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs

Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon

Oak Ridge Mayor Warren Gooch

Peer-to-Peer Crowdfunding Campaign

This year, friends created their own online campaigns to help crowdfund donations for YWCA's life-saving domestic violence services. Personal campaigns can be created all year long here! If you have any questions on how to create a Peer-to-Peer cause, contact Marina Taylor, Director of Development, at mtaylor@ywcaknox.com.

Purple Hearts Social Media Campaign

Thank you for taking a stand against domestic violence by sharing YWCA's DVAM Hearts on your social media platforms to say #YWeBelieveYou to survivors and victims. Together, we can stop the cycle of domestic violence.