HANCOCK COUNTY — An Anderson-based organization that helps victims of domestic and sexual violence has a new advocate for Hancock County residents in need.
Alternatives Inc. recently recruited Madison Garrity as its new Hancock County outreach advocate. Garrity will help victims of domestic and sexual violence find safe environments, which can include finding a shelter for them or finding ways to help them stay protected in their own homes.
Garrity replaces Rachel Dennis, who was with the organization for two years before stepping down at the end of 2018.
Garrity, a Greenfield native, said learning of Dennis’s and the organization’s impact impressed her and made her want to pursue having a similar influence.
"I feel like it’s a great way for me to make an impact because this is my home community," Garrity said.
Garrity said her compassion will aid her well in the role.
"I really care about helping people and making a difference and just doing the most that I can do to make a difference in people’s lives," she said.
Natalie Warren, outreach program manager for Alternatives, said in an email to the Daily Reporter that part of Garrity’s appeal to the organization was her desire to make her hometown and county a better place.
"She came to us full of passion and a strong desire to make a difference," Warren said.
Garrity has a bachelor of science degree in public health and was a health education intern for the Hamilton County Health Department. Warren said that knowledge will be invaluable for the classroom presentations Garrity will do for Alternatives.
One of Garrity’s goals is to raise more awareness on responses to sexual assaults. She referred to a campaign called Start by Believing, which aims to improve personal and professional reactions to reports of sexual violence.
Garrity also wants to continue working to ensure Hancock County residents are aware of the resources available to victims of domestic and sexual abuse.
"These are issues that they may not necessarily be wanting to come out in the open and talk about," Garrity said. "But having that person there who they can call or reach out to or who can call them and get provided with those resources I think is really important."
Alternatives served 51 Hancock County victims in 2018, according to event information for the organization’s upcoming Donut Dash 5K next month. Before the 5K, the Cumberland Police Department will present Victim Rights Awards to corporals Brent Brown, Michael Crooke II and Ron Cole and Commander Suzanne Woodland. The award honors service to crime victims.
Garrity is seeking sponsors and vendors for the Donut Dash. Those who are interested can contact her at 317-462-8777 or [email protected].
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People who need to escape from a dangerous environment involving domestic violence and/or sexual assault can call Alternatives Inc.’s 24/7 toll-free crisis hotline: 866-593-9999. More information also is available by visiting the organization’s website: www.alternativesdv.org
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WHAT: Alternatives Inc. 2019 Donut Dash 5K to benefit the agency’s programs.
WHEN: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 13
WHERE: Courthouse Plaza, downtown Greenfield
REGISTER: AlternativesDonutDash2019.Eventbrite.com
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