A Tradition of Good Works
by Leslie Feldman, Retreat Volunteer Having recently retired from a career in the hospitality business, I hoped I would finally have the time to be able to give back to my community and to help those who have been less fortunate than myself. Lucky enough to be raised in a household of privilege, my Mother […]
Offering Support to Children During a Custody Battle
Domestic violence is one of the main reasons couples get divorced. In the state of New York, the domestic violence rate against women is at 31.70%. Against men, the rates are at 29.00%. Though these rates are middling in comparison to the rest of the country, the fact domestic violence occurs at all is a cause […]
Talking Makes a Difference
Talk About It, this year’s theme for Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, engages everyone in conversations about healthy relationships and how to navigate what may be an unhealthy or abusive relationship. For those who have only been in or seen unhealthy relationships in their lives, talking about those behaviors is important because they may not […]
Why Are We Wearing Orange?
On Tuesday, February 8, we will be wearing and displaying the color orange in order to raise awareness about teen dating violence and promote the resources available to youth. Tell your colleagues, friends, and family why you are wearing orange and share information with them.
2022 Art Contest
The New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence is holding its annual Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month art contest to raise awareness about the issue. The 2022 contest, with the theme of “Know Your Worth” is open to anyone in New York State between the ages of 12 and 20. Submissions will be accepted until […]
Precious Cargo on Board
I began to volunteer at The Retreat’s shelter a little over ten years ago. There was a different director and a smaller physical space. Times have changed and there’s a new director and the building has expanded to provide larger bedrooms, a big modern kitchen and a great outdoor playground. It reminds me that on […]
Why We Need Awareness
In the United States, the highest rates of rape and sexual assault are experienced by teens ages 12 to 19. 1 in every 3 teens in the US will be physically, sexually, or emotionally abused by someone they are in a relationship with. Nearly half (43%) of college women report experiencing violent or abusive dating […]
Are Your Movements Being Followed?
Stalking as an abusive behavior is not new, but technology-facilitated abuse has made stalking easier for perpetrators to target others. New technologies, like Apple AirTag and Tile, are inexpensive, simple to set up, and small enough to easily hide. An internet search of bluetooth tracking devices gets almost 55 MILLION results with top results from […]
A Matter of Heart
By Nikki Shomer After retiring in 2016 I moved to East Hampton and finally had the time to get involved in the community. A friend invited me to The Retreat benefit event at The Stephen Talkhouse where I met Loretta Davis, The Retreat’s Director. Our conversation inspired me to become a volunteer and I love […]
How We Deal With Mental Health in Digital Spaces
January is Stalking Awareness Month. In recognition of the danger presented by technology, The Retreat’s interns will be highlighting different online platforms. But first, what do we mean by “Intentional Tech?”
