Annual Report

In collaboration with criminal justice and victim service providers, the Women’s Fund released a new research report, “State of Domestic Violence in Douglas County.” This report highlights data trends over a three-year period and helps the community to better understand the scope of abuse locally and how systems can collectively keep victims safe and hold offenders accountable. These efforts included partnering with allies in the journalism industry to shift the way they report on violence against women. Journalists have the ability to shape public perception, so we developed “Changing the Narrative of Violence Against Women: A Media Resource” to assist in that work.

On April 30, Brenda Council retired as Adolescent Health Project Manager but remains connected to the Women’s Fund as a consultant continuing her service to the community as an advocate for sexual and reproductive health services. In June, the Women’s Fund was awarded “Organization of the Year” by the Heartland Pride Board of Directors for continuing to advocate for barrier-free access to sexual and reproductive health services for all adolescents. The 8th class of Circles included 32 new members and continued to drive our mission through advocacy efforts and community impact. With unwavering support and unparalleled commitment, Melanie Morrisey Clark completed her second term as board chair at the end of 2019. Much of the work highlighted here is a direct result of her leadership.