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Here’s the story of one local organization that will be looking for support during Give Local this year.
When Kamilah first came to Hope’s Door she was frightened and alone. At first she was wary, but soon she appreciated the peaceful home provided by the shelter for women escaping domestic violence.
“I hadn’t seen, heard, or experienced that kind of warmth and closeness since I can’t remember when,’’ she said. “It was all so new to me, yet intriguing. It was something I was afraid of, but desperately desired.”
Today, Kamilah is a teacher, published author and soon to be CEO of her own organization, Your Words Mean Something, Inc., helping other women facing domestic violence find their voice. “They gave me the tools and resources to go back to school and get my degree. Hope’s Door gave me the courage to step out on faith and write my own book and to be a better mother to my son,” said Kamilah.
Originally founded in 1980 as the Northern Westchester Shelter, and later renamed Hope’s Door in 2009, the shelter provides a safe haven for women as well as support to help them develop safety strategies and self-advocacy skills. It also works to end the cycle of domestic violence through education and counseling. To hear a brief testimonial, click here.
“I’m pleased to be a part of Give Local which supports so many great causes and in particular, Hope’s Door’s,’’ said Scott McGee of News 12 Westchester. “ Their work to end domestic violence and to empower victims to achieve safety, independence and healing from the trauma of abuse is critically important to Westchester County and beyond.”
To find out more about Give Local Westchester & Putnam or to give to any of the 117 local organizations participating on May 3-4, visit givelocalwp.org. Share on social media #givelocalwp.
