The Verizon Foundation awarded $20,000 to Peaceful Paths Domestic Abuse Network to enhance violence prevention in the area. The certified domestic abuse network, which serves survivors of domestic violence in Alachua, Bradford and Union counties, will use the money to support educational programs and social marketing campaigns.
"So, what we see this money being able to do is increase our ability to impact healthy relationships as they're moving forward in the youth population for those kids who have the opportunity or are just starting the development of their adult relationships," Peaceful Paths executive producer Theresa Beachy said.
The prevention programs recently completed a 10-year plan from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Verizon grant will replace the funds that are no longer being renewed by the original plan.
Peaceful Paths also offers an emergency shelter with amenities for families of victims and protection from the violence at home. Beachy said if the organization wants to end domestic violence, it must approach the issue from different angles.
"We are huge believers that the best way to end this issue once and for all is really to work from all sides of the spectrum," she said. "So not only do the intervention-based programs like emergency shelter, but to do the primary prevention work that actually helps reduce incidents of domestic violence in the future."
The Verizon Foundation check will be presented at the agency's Annual Meeting and Trustees dinner on Jan. 28. Contact Peaceful Paths at 1-800-500-1119 with relationship questions or for more information about the organization.
Emily Miller edited this story online.