Knies awarded “Outstanding Preventionist”

Joan Eckerle Knies, a Crisis Connection Community Education Specialist, received the 2012 Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence “Outstanding Preventionist” award at the annual conference held in Indianapolis.

The Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence recognizes professionals from the across the state who go above and beyond the call of duty serving those affected by interpersonal violence. Knies was presented with the honor at the 17th Annual Awards Luncheon by Laura Berry, ICADV Executive Director.

Knies works with the Crisis Connection, Inc., a local volunteer-based victim assistance program that serves victims of domestic and sexual violence primarily within Dubois, Crawford, Orange, Perry and Spencer Counties. Crisis Connection is a grassroots agency that has grown from a hotline to a multi-service agency providing services to over 1,700 clients annually.[hr]

Free Valentines available

Recognizing that Valentine’s Day for some can be filled with romance and friendship, for others it is filled with anxiety, fear and violence. Sometimes, through no fault of their own, those who have experienced relational aggression are more likely to binge drink, get into fights, have low self esteem, experience depression, attempt suicide, and be victimized again.

In addition to their 24-hour hotline (1-800-245-4580) and Facebook page, Crisis Connection will have free Valentine’s Day materials available. A pledge, a poster and cards are available for download on their website, www.crisisconnectioninc.org. They also have several varieties of printed greeting cards available at their agency for the asking.

For more information, call the Community Education Department at one of their local offices (Dubois County 482-1555; Perry County 547-8878; or Spencer County 649-2303).