August 2010
Rounded Rectangle: Family Justice Center 9309 N. Florida Ave. Suite #109 Tampa, Florida 33612 Phone: 813-935-2015 Fax: 813-935-2019 E-mail: info@fjchc.org Website: www.fjchc.org Hours of Operation: Monday– Thursday 8am-8pm Friday 8am-5pm Rounded Rectangle: In This Issue: 2010 ‘Stop the Violence’ Conference Macy’s ‘Shop for a Cause’ Fundraiser FJC VOICES FJC Job Opening -Service Specialist FJC Lunch and Learn Program NNEDV Celebrates 15 Year Anniversary! SAIN Recognized as the Best Practice Model FJC Monthly Partner Spotlight - DACCO FJC Volunteer Program FJC Training Academy Child Welfare and Domestic Violence Cross-System Training Series Sexual Abuse Intervention Network Training Community Meetings Rounded Rectangle: Family Justice Center Newsletter Text Box:  FJC VOICES Committee The Unexpected By VOICES Member, Kimberly Mundell I found myself sitting in a parking lot, alone, frightened and tears flowing.  My mind was racing with thoughts of my stupidity, my failures, my guilt and shame. What had I done wrong this time to warrant such an assault.  My heart was shattered with the image of my husband’s eyes full of rage, his hands gripping my neck and the sound of me hitting the wall.  How could I have winded up in a criminal trial, news investigation, home foreclosed on, no money in the bank, no job, no transportation?  Pondering my God’s grace and mercy I was angry that He had allowed the hand of one of his servants to harm me physically, emotionally, mentally, financially and most detrimental, spiritually.  I had kept this secret for over 20 years to protect his image, my child, congregations of supporters…  but yet I was alone in a parking lot with nothing, not even hope.  At that moment, death seemed the way of escape.  Why bother getting out of the car, no one will believe me, no one will care… I’m just a black woman, who married a white minister who feels scorned and betrayed wanting sympathy. Where the energy came from to open the car door (my Mom’s) I don’t know but I shuffled my way to the doors of the Family Justice Center.  When the receptionist buzzed me through and asked me to have a seat and the Case Manager would be there in a moment, I looked for a corner to easily hide.  I thought I had found one, away from everyone.  I heard a voice call my name and I looked at a smiling face.  She had something I thought I would never lose, a smile.  She escorted me through what seemed like a maze, finally resting in an intimate room.  Her eyes caught mine and she gently asked, “What can I help you with?”  The flow of my tears became harder, my heart was pounding and my mind racing.  When I finished, I waited for the question, “Why did you stay so long?”; it didn’t come, instead the words were, “Don’t worry Kimberly, we are here to help!” Help. Help. Help…. It echoed in my ears…. Really, you want to help me.  She let me know that my situation was unique to me but unfortunately knowledgeable to the professionals that dedicate their careers within the walls of the Family Justice Center.  She quickly noticed that physically I didn’t look well and mastered the ‘system’ to get me county health insurance.  She sensed that I wasn’t ready for a lot that today because I was ill, she comforted me by sharing that most of what I needed was right here.  I was promised many ‘helping’ hands that would be outstretched to hold my hand when I was ready… but for now,  “Let’s get you some food and a doctor’s appointment.”  Although I left embarrassed carrying a box of food out the door, I felt something that I hadn’t felt in decades, peace.  I rediscovered, no matter how miniature it was hope.  That first trip through the doors of the Family Justice Center was more like a crawl, nothing similar to the pep I have in my step, three (3) years later, as well as the excitement.  With the ‘help’ of the FJC, it’s staff, volunteers and programs I was able to build a new life for myself.  While many days in this journey have been filled with frustration, anger, disappointment and challenges, nothing compares to the confidence, reassurances and determination that have developed deep within.  Last summer when I was told by the neurosurgeon that surgery on my neck was not an option but a necessity from one of the last assaults of my perpetrator I was determined that no one should ever have to suffer as long and as much as I had experienced.  I began to contemplate “What if?”  What if, someone had educated me about domestic violence?  What if, I had known about the services of the FJC before I needed them?  What if,  I could have developed a way to leave that was safe?  What if I had known of the counseling services that could balance my coping skills while I was still in the marriage?  Ironically, the what if seemed to turn to Kimberly, what if you spoke up, spoke out.  What if you Kimberly put a voice behind your truth?  What if you broke the secrecy of silence?  What if you, educated those who had an ear to listen?  With the burning urgency of commission inside I decided that if given the opportunity I would use my journey to detour others from traveling down this rough path of destruction.  I purposed in my heart to commit to doing whatever it takes to put a positive, yet strong voice of experience to the forefront.  To be part of VOICES is that forum.  It’s an opportunity to silence the ‘what ifs’ with action.  It’s a call to service to those who have been silenced or have to remain silence for safety.  It’s an awareness to those who are part of the recovery system of domestic violence that you are not dealing with a definition, but lives of individuals that desperately want out, but need ‘help’ to get out.  VOICES is taking the unexpected and molding it into a passion to outstretch my hand through my voice to grab someone’s hand whose journey has just begun as they sit in the parking lot wondering how they got to where they are at.   Family Justice Center is now accepting resumes for FJC Service Specialist! Responsibilities include: Conduct interviews with Domestic Violence victims/survivors in order to assess needs and provide information, referrals, and support. Schedule appointments for FJC guests with FJC partner agencies. Prepare and maintain case records and information necessary for agency reports. Work as part of a team to ensure quality service provision for FJC guests. A competitive benefits package is offered, including health, dental and life insurance, short term disability, and a retirement plan, all paid by the agency. Vacation, sick and personal time off is also included. Applicants must be bi-lingual (English/Spanish). Must have ability to work until 8pm Monday-Thursday. Applicants must have knowledge of domestic violence issues and local community resources. This position requires a Bachelor’s degree and one year of experience in interviewing and needs assessment is preferred. Interested parties should e-mail their resume to FJC Program Coordinator, Shannon Sokolowski, at programcoord@fjchc.org.  FJC “Lunch and Learn” Program Presented by the Board of Directors and Nikki Daniels, FJC Executive Director The Family Justice Center of Hillsborough County is now taking reservations for our "Lunch and Learn" Program! Please join us for a complimentary lunch and learn more about the FJC, our partner agencies and the valuable services that are helping our community combat domestic violence. The sponsor for the month of July is:  The Karniewicz Law Group Please click link to visit website Thank you, Karniewicz Law Group for your ongoing commitment to the FJC! Lunch and Learns are from 12:00pm - 1:00pm At the FJC Upcoming Dates August 17th September 21st October 19th November 16th December 21st Make your reservation now ~ space is limited. RSVP to Nikki Daniels at: ndaniels@fjchc.org   NNEDV is Celebrating its 15th Anniversary!   Happy Anniversary, NNEDV! NNEDV has made tremendous strides in the movement to end domestic violence over the past 15 years.  In celebration of their anniversary, NNEDV is releasing their Highlights in History ("HnH") on the 15th of each month.   To view all of the groundbreaking work that they have done over the last 15 years, CLICK HERE   FJC Partner Council Spotlight The FJC ‘Partner Spotlight’ for the month of August is of Drug Abuse Comprehensive Counseling Center’s (DACCO) Center for Behavioral Health . DACCO is a multi-faceted program addressing prevention, intervention, and treatment. These services include residential , outpatient, women’s , preventative, and HIV/AIDS services. DACCO provides services to children, youth, adolescents, and adults, as well as to the co-occurring population (mental health/substance abuse) and the homeless community.  The client success story of the month is of a guest of the FJC who’s 13 year old daughter was consuming alcohol from the family’s wine vault. The family went through intake at the FJC and were referred to DACCO’s Strengthening Families program which provides in community, home, or school evidence based counseling to children. The teen successfully completed the program and is now a senior in high school on the principles honor roll list. Thank you, DACCO for being a part of the Family Justice Center team and for all the work that you do! “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” - Henry Ford.   Sexual Abuse Intervention Network (SAIN) Recognized as a Best Practice Model Department of Children and Families (DCF) Secretary George H. Sheldon established a work group to determine the facts and circumstances surrounding the tragic death of 7-year-old Gabriel Myers. Gabriel died on April 16 when police indicated he apparently hanged himself in the shower of his foster parents' home. The work group was asked to conduct a full inquiry into the facts of the case, in light of case management and judicial decisions, as well as determine the contributing effects that psychotropic drugs and sexual abuse had. On February 17, 2010, SAIN (Sexual Abuse Intervention Network of Hillsborough County) was asked to present to the work group addressing prevention, training, and intervention/treatment effective in reducing the prevalence of child on child sexual abuse in Hillsborough County. In the Gabriel Myers Work Group Final Report date May 14, 2010, the Sexual Abuse Intervention Network of Hillsborough County (SAIN) was recognized as a best practice model. The report findings noted “The Sexual Abuse Intervention Network (SAIN), currently engaged in Hillsborough and Broward Counties, is a best practice which should be funded by the State or locally in other major counties.” The full work group report can be viewed at their website www.hillsboroughsain.com. Congratulations SAIN on a job well done!   FJC Volunteer Program Are YOU interested in volunteering at the Family Justice Center? The Family Justice Center is always looking for people willing to share their time and service to help provide a safe and comfortable environment for all those we serve. Want to know more? Please attend our upcoming “Helping Hands” FJC Volunteer Training and Information Session.  Helping Hands: Volunteering at the FJC August 17th, 2010 2:00– 4:00 pm Interested in volunteering at the FJC? The Helping Hands: Volunteering at the FJC Training and Information Session is for you! Potential volunteers will learn about each volunteer position, safety and security policies of the FJC, volunteer scheduling, and other topics specific to volunteers in the program. Those interested in volunteering will also complete their volunteer application, have their initial interview, and tour the FJC.  To register for Helping Hands, CLICK HERE Unable to attend Helping Hands? Please visit the link below to complete a volunteer application: FJC VOLUNTEER PROGRAM Is your group interested in volunteering at the FJC? Please contact Education and Outreach Coordinator, Mona Cruz at: 813.490.9428 or outreachcoord@fjchc.org .  The Family Justice Center Training Academy  Nuts and Bolts: The Basics of Domestic Violence Advocacy Training August 2nd and 3rd or August 30th and 31st, 2010 8:30am - 5:00pm FJC ***12 CEU’s*** ***14.5 General CLE’s*** $20 suggested donation Nuts and Bolts is a four part (FJC 101, 201, 301, 401), 2-day training offered to advocates, volunteers, interns, clergy, and other community based providers who work with victims of domestic violence. Topics include, dynamics of domestic violence, safety planning, lethality assessment, confidentiality, boundaries, working with diverse populations, dating violence, and effects of domestic violence on children and adolescents.  The Child Welfare Domestic Violence Cross-System Training Series Presents: Understanding Batterers and Batterers Intervention Programs August 11th, 2010 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm FJC ***3 CEU’s*** Free This training will focus on understanding the Model used in psycho-educational treatment and the learning how to increase communication between BIP providers and child welfare professionals. Additionally, participants will look at how domestic violence impacts our society as a whole. Webinars All webinars are hosted and viewed at the FJC.  From Girls to Women: Countering Limited Roles for Women Through Norms Change Host: David Lee Presenter: Annie Lyles and Christine Chang Invited Guests: Cory Wechsler, Team Up for Youth Megan Williams, Hardy Girls Healthy Women Thursday, August 5th, 2010 2:00 - 3:30pm Viewed at the FJC  Countering norms that reinforce limited roles for girls and women is an opportunity  to prevent violence in a lasting, comprehensive way. This webinar will include lessons learned shared by innovative local advocates and audience insight highlighting strategies and efforts seeking to change norms related to gendered violence.   Norms will be examined with regard to their historical context, distinct challenges, and opportunities for collaborative work.   Objectives: Understand how norms create an environment in which violence is more likely to occur Provide examples of successes from people and organizations working in the field to counter norms of limited roles for girls and women Identify strategies being used to effectively counter and change norms Identify potential indicators for measuring progress in norms change  The Family Justice Center Alliance   Presents:      Understanding Co-Occurring  Substance Abuse Disorders    Your Webinar Presenter is:   Renee Sievert, RN, MFT Training and Leadership Consultant Mental Health Systems, Inc. Tuesday, August 10th 12:00pm—1:30pm Viewed at the FJC Presentation Description: This series of webinars is designed to introduce professionals in the DV field to common mental health and substance use disorders.  Presenter will review symptoms, diagnostic criteria, and strategies for screening, assessment and referral of DV victims with mental health or substance abuse issues.    Please Register for All FJC Trainings at: http://www.fjchc.org/public/events.html   SAIN Presents:   Children with  Sexual Acting Out Behaviors  August 10th 9:00 am - 11:00 am FJC ***2 CEU’s*** $5 SAIN is a collaboration of volunteer professionals working to reduce the incidence of child on child sexual abuse in our community through identifying, referring, supervising and treating children with sexual behavior problems. “Children with Sexual Acting Out Behaviors” is a two-hour, introductory course for professionals working with children.  This course enables participants to distinguish between healthy and problematic sexual behaviors in children.  Topics including characteristics of sexually abusive youth, definition of child sexual abuse, strategies for preventing further victimization and the legal process in Hillsborough County are also covered in this course. "The One, Two Punch: How Media Violence is Impacting Our Children"  Friday, September 17, 2010 9:00 am - 12:00 pm  (Registration begins at 8:00 AM) FJC  ***3 CEU’s*** Workshop Fee $10.00  Presenter:  Charles Stevens, Psy.D., P.A. Private Practice    Workshop Description: This workshop will provide the participant with information about how media violence imparts a violent message to our society and to our children. Violence through films, print adds, video games and music will be reviewed and it’s “modeling” of violence to our children. Additionally, the issue of youth desensitization to violence and the use of violence to solve problems will be examined as well as the overall impact of violence on sexual development and sexual acting out behaviors of our youth. About the Presenter: Dr. Charles Stevens is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice with 24 years of experience. His specialty areas include children, adolescents and their families. In addition to his practice in Brevard County, Fl., he is an adjunct professor at Florida Institute of Technology, University of Central Florida, and Brevard Community College. Dr. Stevens is a dynamic speaker and presents on a number of mental health topics throughout the United States. He is also a sought after expert witness within the court system. Dr. Stevens is currently working on a book series using animal analogies  to teach children problem solving and coping skills. He is also designing and implementing a number of unique therapy experiences in which individuals and/or their families are involved in comprehensive treatment programs in a different locations throughout the United States and the Caribbean. Licensed mental health providers (LCSW, LMHC, LMFT), psychologists and school psychologists can receive 3 Continuing Education Credits through the Family Justice Center of Hillsborough County- Provider #50-7820 (expires 3/2011).   Please Register for All SAIN Trainings at: http://www.fjchc.org/public/events.html     Community Meetings FJC Partner Council Meetings are held the second Wednesday of every month. The next meeting will be on August 11th, 2010 at 9 am at the Family Justice Center. Contact Shannon Sokolowski at: ssokolowski@fjchc.org with any questions. Sexual Abuse Intervention Network (SAIN) Meetings are held every third Wednesday of the month. The next meeting will be on August 18th 2010 at 9 am at the Family Justice Center. Contact Renee Ristow at: rristow@fjchc.org with any questions. Sexual Violence Task Force Meetings are held monthly at rotating partner agencies. The next meeting will be on August 10th, 2010 at noon at The Crisis Center. Contact Marilyn Bray at: mbray@crisiscenter.com with any questions. Child Welfare/ Domestic Violence Policy Group September 14th, at 3:00pm at the Family Justice Center. Contact Nikki Daniels at: ndaniels@fjchc.org with any questions. Hillsborough County Domestic Violence Task Force Committee Meetings:  Domestic Violence Task Force September 9th, 2010 at 10:30a at the Crisis Center. Contact Nikki Daniels at ndaniels@fjchc.org for more information. DVTF Committee Meetings Fatality Review Planning Committee ( Formerly Project L.A.U.R.A) TBA at the Family Justice Center. Contact Roseanne Cupoli at: rocupoli@thespring.org or 813-247-5433 ext. 309 for more information. Public Policy Committee Working on DV and Child Welfare project. September 14th, 2010 at 3:00pm at the Family Justice Center. Contact Nikki Daniels at: ndaniels@fjchc.org or 813-490-9401. Community Education & Awareness Committee August 19th, 2010 at 9:00am at The Family Justice Center. Contact Brenda Rouse at: bprouse@thespring.org or 813-247-5433 ext. 315. Conference Planning Committee Meeting Committee is currently planning the 2010 DVTF Annual Conference. August 13th, 2010 at 1:00pm at the Family Justice Center. For more information please contact Laura Rice at: ricel@hillsboroughcounty.org  facebookRounded Rectangle: Volunteer Now! Rounded Rectangle: Donate Now! Rounded Rectangle: follow us on

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Text Box:  2010 Stop the Violence  Conference   Featuring: Ret. Major General Susan Pamerleau   More speakers and presenters to come! Friday, October 22, 2010 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Alfano Conference Center    ABOUT THE PRESENTER AND THE WORKSHOP : This year's conference will feature Ret. Air Force Major General Susan Pamerleau.  As a survivor of domestic violence, Susan shares her story of strength, hope, and resilience with honesty and passion. Susan credits her therapist who was able to  recognize the abuse and safety plan with her for her survival .   Stay tuned for additional presenters!   Workshop Cost:   Only $40! (which includes lunch, snack and CEU/CLE credits)   Conference Payment Options:  Credit Card or Check  (Make checks payable to Family Justice Center)  Payment must be received in advance of the conference.   CEU/CLE Credits:  This training provides 7 CEU/ 8.5 CLE credits.  CEU and CLE credits are provided courtesy of the Family Justice Center of Hillsborough County .  CEU's are approved for Florida Licensed Mental Health Providers, Licensed Social Workers, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Psychologists, Limited License Psychologists and School Psychologists (Provider #50-7820 exp. 3/31/2011).  8.5 general CLE credits (provider #0248564 exp. 4/22/2011). Pending approval for the Florida Board of Nursing.    **Please bring in donations of unused cell phone to help victims of domestic violence.   Act fast! Seats sell out quickly! To register for the conference, click here: REGISTER NOW!    On Saturday, October 16th, Macy’s is having it’s 5th Annual Shop for a Cause. It’s super simple to get in on the savings and give to the Family Justice Center at the same time! Just purchase a shopping pass from the FJC which includes savings of 20% or 10% off most regular, sale and clearance purchases all day, plus 25% off one regular, sale or clearance item in men's, women's or kids apparel or accessories.  Of course, some exclusions apply, but all proceeds from pass sales go directly towards supporting FJC guests! Passes are for use at the University Mall Macy’s in Tampa. For more information or to purchase a shopping pass, please e-mail Mona Cruz at mcruz@fjchc.org .