History of Vera House

History of Vera House
By Joe Librizzi

The Vera House was originally founded in 1977 by a group of individuals who felt strongly about making a change to end all domestic and sexual violence. The foundation was named after its leader, Sister Mary Vera. Initially the members of Vera House sought out to create an emergency sheltering service for women in crisis. However, since its founding, Vera House has also focused on many issues of domestic violence including: outreach and advocacy, domestic violence education programming, children’s counseling, the Syracuse Area Domestic and Sexual Violation Coalition.
In 2005, two agencies, Vera House and Rape Crisis Center merged together with similar missions and goals to better serve the Central New York community. The Rape Crisis Center was founded in 1974 by a group of individuals who believed there was a need for support and advocacy services for adult rape victims. The Center expanded its mission throughout the years by providing services to child victims of sexual assault and their families, as well as providing a 24-hour response for victims of sexual assault.




Goals of Vera House
➢ To end all domestic and sexual violence
➢ To assist families in crisis
➢ To support those affected by domestic and sexual violence
➢ To live safe, self-sufficient lives
➢ To empower women and children
➢ To promote a culture of equality and respect in relationships

Visit Vera House Website:
http://www.verahouse.org/index.htm





White Ribbon Campaign
A Public Awareness Campaign Against Domestic & Sexual Violence



The White Ribbon Campaign is a 10-day event that helps to raise awareness about domestic and sexual violence. During this period thousands of Central New Yorkers wear a white ribbon or white wristband showing their support for Vera House and their concern over domestic and sexual violence. The Campaign is lead by men every year and encourages all members of the community, men and women, to take part in the different events.


The 2008 White Ribbon Campaign Events:

➢ Steps In The Right Direction…A March To End The Silence & Stop The Violence
o Friday, March 28th (12pm)
o A walk that marks the start of the campaign where white ribbons will be tied around trees and lampposts.

➢ White Ribbon Campaign Breakfast
o Wednesday, April 2nd (7:30am)
o An inspirational program celebrating the White Ribbon Campaign


➢ White Ribbon Campaign High School Challenge
o Monday, March 31st – Friday, April 4th
o A competition between the city high school and suburban high schools. The school that sells the most white ribbons in the city and suburban areas will receive a prize.



Find out more information about the White Ribbon Campaign:
http://www.verahouse.org/news&events/White%20Ribbon%20Campaign%202008.pdf