For many years I wondered what exactly I was here for, what my purpose in life truly was. I finally decided that all I really wanted to do was make a difference, I knew I couldn't change the world but something in me believed that if I could make a difference in just one life then my life would be a life well lived...

A year ago I became a trained domestic violence and sexual assault advocate for the San Miguel Resource Center, and today I was invited to attend their annual luncheon.

During the luncheon they talked about how far we have come in making our communities aware, there is help out there, nobody has to go it alone, and I am very proud to be a part of that education process.

What I didn't expect though... was being named Advocate of the Year. I'm still in shock, being recognized with such a great honor was enough to leave me in tears.

Thank you so very much....

Education is one of the most powerful tools we have in the battle against domestic violence and sexual assault. Educating yourself and using that knowledge to educate others empowers the whole community to take their stand.

Advocates serve a very important role in ending domestic violence and sexual assault in their communities. They are there to educate, assist, and help connect people to the resources they may need to deal with obstacles and difficulties in their lives.

The San Miguel Resource Center will once again be offering free Advocacy classes in the West End of Montrose and San Miguel Counties.

Advocates can be male or female, they can come from any background imaginable. All that is required is a desire to make a difference. Though you must be at least 18 to become an advocate, some high school students may wish to take the course to fill volunteer hours if needed.

Advocates who complete the course will be eligible to serve on the 24 hour crisis hotline or to volunteer in a number of ways throughout the community. Advocates can volunteer as much or as little as they choose, or they may just take the class for education and personal enrichment with no obligation at all.

Classes are a full 40 hours and will be held at the Nucla Town Hall beginning on October 27 and run until November 12th. The classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 9, and will include one Saturday class on November 7th from 9 to 3.

The San Miguel Resource Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating domestic violence and sexual assault. Though they are based in Telluride, Colorado, they serve many of the surrounding communities, and are always seeking men and women who are willing to make a difference.

Once again Classes begin at the Nucla Town Hall on October 27, and will run Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6PM-9PM, with one Saturday class on November 7th from 9AM to 3PM. A total of 40 hours.

To register call:

Megan (970) 728-5842 Ext 3#
or
Angela (970) 864-2274

You may also email advocates @ sanmiguelresourcecenter.org if you would like more information, or to register for the classes.

I hope to see you there!