Saw this story on /r/cfb earlier today, thought it was worth sharing here: a Buckeye fan was discussing the recent Zach Smith / Urban Meyer stuff and realized that it would be a good chance to spread awareness of domestic violence as an issue, and encourage donations to a domestic violence crisis center/hotline in Worthington.
Basically, an Ohio State fan was in some heated message board discussions (I've had my fair share of those here lately, admittedly) and realized that she could use her time to help people in need and rally other Buckeye fans to a good cause. Good to see!
A couple of excerpts from the part of the story about the Worthington shelter/hotline, emphasis is mine:
The executive director of CHOICES, Sue Vallilo, does not comment on specific cases, but said when domestic violence makes headlines, the crisis hotline is always busier.
I hadn't really considered that before, but when survivors tell their stories, it makes other survivors feel more comfortable seeking help for themselves. Guess that's one very positive side effect in all of this – regardless of what happens with the investigative panel or with Courtney/Zach's court case, the publicity here has given domestic violence victims the courage to seek help and call the hotline.
Then, after seeing that Bucknuts rumor spread like wildfire last week, wanted to put this part here as well:
She said negative commentary online often reflects the tactics of actual abusers: discrediting the victim and questioning that person's actions.
"People ask, 'Why does the victim stay?' And what I don't get asked is, 'Why does the batterer do it?" said Vallilo. "When someone comes to us and says they are a victim of domestic violence, we can listen to them — without judgment, and without telling them what to do."
And finally, if any of you are in a situation where you or someone you know could use this resource:
The CHOICES Hotline is available 24/7 to assist survivors of domestic abuse, help them escape an abusive situation and provide safe, confidential housing until the victim is back on their feet.
The hotline can be reached at 614-224-HOME (4663).
