Dean Newton Hikes Through The Grand Canyon for Rose Brooks Center

Rose Brooks Center did a short interview with Dean Newton – RBC Board Member and outdoorsman extraordinaire – on his upcoming Grand Canyon hike.  Dean’s adventure is a terrific example of creative fundraising and how one committed individual can support Rose Brooks Center in a tremendous way. You can support Dean by making a donation in honor of the Grand Canyon hike.

 

RBC: Tell us about the Grand Canyon hike.  

Grand Canyon Fundraising Hike

Dean: I am hiking the Grand Canyon from rim to rim.  As the crow flies, it’s about 18 miles. On foot it is over 21 miles.  The hike is challenging for a couple of reasons.  In addition to the distance, the terrain is uneven and the elevation changes are intense: 5,700 vertical feet down and approximately 12 miles down. Then another 9 miles and 4,500 vertical feet up.  With changes in elevation come extreme temperatures, ranging from freezing cold on the rim to triple digit heat on the canyon floor.  Hikers can experience 13 different climate zones along the way.  The larger challenge is that I am doing this hike in a day. The National Park Service and Grand Canyon Park do not endorse doing this hike in one day.  Hikers run the risk of hypnatremia, dehydration and extreme heat exhaustion.   While there are serious risks, the reward of challenging myself and helping others (who face far greater challenges than anything I will experience on this trip) was simply too compelling.

RBC: Not being outdoorsy myself, this sounds intense – and a little crazy.  What made you want to do it?

Dean: Domestic violence has touched my life in many ways. I grew up in a household that included significant domestic violence. As a lawyer, I have counseled several friends who have struggled with domestic violence issues.  As a result of my background, ending the cycle of violence and helping survivors and their children move toward safe and independent violence-free lives is a cause that is extremely important to me.

As a Rose Brooks board member, I realize the central role the organization plays to provide a safe home for literally thousands of women and children in the area.   Unfortunately, the growing demands for services at Rose Brooks is outpacing the resources. Last year Rose Brooks had to turn away 2700 women and children.  That is simply unacceptable.  We must raise more money to address this problem.

As I looked to find a way to raise money, I wanted to do something different.  I thought an extreme challenge such as the Grand Canyon hike would be a good way to raise awareness of this acute problem in the area.

RBC: Have you done anything like this before? 

Dean: Nothing even close to this magnitude! But perhaps I am understating when I say that.

RBC: It sounds like an incredibly intense day.  I assume you’ve had to do some training to prepare for the hike.  What does that include? 

Dean: Fortunately, I have been training for the last few months with John Brown at Revolution Gym. He has been really helpful in getting me prepared for this hike.  My training has been a combination of cardio and weight training. The cardio is to build stamina and strengthen the legs. The weight training emphasizes the body core since I will be carrying a pack weighing approximately 15 pounds for an extended period of time.

Dean Newton

RBC: What do your friends/family think of you doing this? 

They think I am crazy.  But everyone has been incredibly supportive. My kids are enjoying the preparation as they learn more than they every thought they needed to know about all things related to the Grand Canyon.

RBC: Why did you choose RBC as the beneficiary for the hike? 

As I mentioned, as a child growing up in a violent household, I know from personal experience the impact domestic violence can have on a family.  If we did not have access to the support and services provided by organizations like Rose Brooks Center, I do not know where we would be today.  Rose Brooks Center is the leader in innovative domestic violence programs and support.  They literally are saving lives every day and 100% of every dollar I raise will go directly to Rose Brooks to help victims and their families.

How does Rose Brooks Center benefit from this hike?

I am asking friends and family to sponsor my hike. They have been both supportive and generous.  Any money raised will be used to help purchase formula for babies, meals for moms and their families as well as safe shelter and counseling for victims and their familes. Folks interested can still donate. Simply access the website for more details at http://www.RoseBrooks.org

Annual Holiday Store for Rose Brooks Center

I have been a volunteer for Rose Brooks for 1O years and one of the highlights of my Christmas season is to volunteer at the Holiday Store. I generally have a few vacation days from work to myself and spending some time at the Holiday Store gives me a sense of accomplishment and sharing.

Rose Brooks Center is an amazing, worthwhile and much-needed organization, but meeting the needs of women and children at Christmas time is a challenge.  Whether accepting dropped-off items at the kiosk or sorting gift items and bins in the storage area, I always feel the spirit of Christmas after being welcomed and thanked by Joan Dougherty.

Merry Christmas to Rose Brooks and thank you for your services to
women and children of Kansas City.

Deborah Bollman

Today concluded the 17th annual Rose Brooks Center Holiday Store.  Despite the poor economic times, the Kansas City community once again stepped up to ensure that every woman and child has a safe and happy holiday season.  The hundreds of donated gifts are currently being organized by devoted volunteers, set up to look like a real store.  Later today, staff will take groups of women and children to the “store” to shop for their family.  Thank you to Joan Dougherty, RBC staff and Holiday Store queen, the hundreds of committed volunteers who worked tirelessly manning the mall kiosk – and of course all the individuals who donated gifts, supplies and money to help support the families at Rose Brooks Center. We couldn’t do our great work without you.

View the list of needs at Rose Brooks Center > http://www.RoseBrooks.org/help-meetaneed.html

It Takes Guts to End Abuse

The facts and figures of domestic violence are scary and It Takes GUTS to End Abuse. In honor of domestic violence awareness month beauty brands has teamed up with domestic violence shelters around the country to End Abuse and has locally teamed up with the Rose Brooks Center.

To help the Rose Brooks Center and beauty brands End Abuse, visit any beauty brands location to get REDKEN Guts for $7.98 (regularly $15.98) and 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to a local domestic violence shelter from now until Nov 1.

You can also purchase an End Abuse t-shirt at beautybrands.com for $20 and 100 percent of the profits will also be donated to a local domestic violence shelter from now until Nov. 1. Don’t forget to get one for your mom, sister and bff!

beauty brands wants all women to know that they have the power to help or to be helped, visit ittakesguts.org for more information.

My big sister, Rozeta Birch-Jones

Me and Rozeta celebrated just months before she was murdered.

Dear RiskHope,

Strong, opinionated, straight-forward, and independent are a few words that I use to describe my big sister, Rozeta Birch-Jones. She played such an active role in my upbringing; she was at every birthday party, graduation. She was the person who taught me to love unconditionally, no matter how much someone hurt me.

I can’t remember the last thing I said to her or the last time I saw her, but I will never forget how I felt when I got the phone call on Sunday, October 10, 2008. He had killed her. My sister was gone.

At her memorial, I handed out purple ribbons for everyone to wear in recognition of victims of domestic violence, in recognition of my sister. From that day on, I vowed to not stand by and allow another family to endure the pain that my family had. I have since used every opportunity I have had to bring awareness and support victims of domestic violence.

On March 9, 2010, I turned 30.  I celebrated “Three Decades of ME!” in Kansas City with family and friends. But my circle of loved ones wasn’t complete; Rozeta wasn’t there to celebrate with me.  I decided to use the celebration of my life to recognize her life that ended so tragically. I started Ribbons for Rozeta in honor of my sister.  All the guests at my party wore domestic violence ribbons and were asked to make a donation to Rose Brooks Center in her honor. I plan to make Ribbons for Rozeta an annual event, and in the meantime, will continue raising awareness for this serious cause.

I will always remember my sister’s strength and determination, and it’s those memories that will keep me strong and be the driving force behind my efforts.

Neosho Ponder

To learn more about Rose Brooks Center and how you can support our mission visit http://www.RoseBrooks.org

Soul Steps Interview With Stephanie Doolin O’Dear

Q&A with Soul Steps’ Emcee, Stephanie Doolin O’Dear

Stephanie Doolin O’Dear (center) with rock star photographer and RBC supporters, Jenny and Ruth Wheat

What does the theme Soul Steps mean to you?

Soul Steps means honoring the journey that each of us has as we live a life in search of our full potential. Recognizing those moments when critical mass forces us to make life-threatening or life-changing decisions. The magnitude of those decisions is uniquely intimate and personal to the person experiencing them. The process occurs in our soul at the deepest level.  And the clarity we uncover there provides the courage to take the next step.

What makes this event different?  Why should I come?

Did someone say shoes?  I’m so there!   But seriously, there is not a man or woman I know who hasn’t wrestled with major upheaval. And a person experiencing intimate partner abuse is Exhibit A. It crosses ethnic, economic and class boundaries. Rose Brooks is one of the shining stars of our community, and yet they are forced to turn away those in need each day due to lack of space. There isn’t anyone I know who can’t find an hour for this worthy and unique event.  And did you hear there are shoes?

Why do you support Rose Brooks Center?

I support Rose Brooks Center because of my own story, my appreciation of their services, and the impact on the lives of those they serve.  It is unlike any other organization I know – it is the path to recovery and brimming with humanity and compassion. Working with its people and vision feels real and tangible – and I invite all to discover the rewards of being involved.

Soul Steps on September 30, 2010

Join Stephanie Thursday, September 30 at Soul Steps to celebrate the courageous steps every woman takes in life.  Your support will save lives – and you may even walk out in a new pair of Manolos!  Click here to learn more about this unique event and the designer shoe raffle and buy your tickets today.

Learn more at http://www.RoseBrooks.org

Mrs. Kansas International 2010 – Crista Murdock

I was raised in a Christian home by loving devoted Christian parents. I attended church three times a week. Both parents were very active in the church. My father was a Deacon and Sunday School Superintendent, and both parents were leaders in the youth ministry, yet I was too afraid to admit that I was in an abusive relationship.

It started out as a normal teenage relationship. The first year of the relationship was wonderful.  I was young and in love.  But in to the second year, he became increasingly jealous. I was not allowed to spend time with my friends, talk to any males (not friends or relatives) and could not attend any school functions. Eventually I was not allowed to even wear makeup or curl my hair.

It was my Home Economics teacher who finally reached out to me. She recognized the signs and simply asked if she could help. Had it not been for her, I don’t know where I would be.  She let me know that I was not alone and that there is a way to escape.  She saved my life.

If you are in an unhealthy relationship, if you feel like you can’t be yourself around him, if you need help – please reach out to a trusted adult.  If you are uncomfortable telling your parents, I encourage you to confide in a teacher or school counselor. It worked for me.

To all school employees: Please get involved! Take notice. Learn the signs of teen violence.  You can make a difference by simply asking “can I help?”

Crista Murdock
Mrs. Kansas International 2010

Some warning signs to talk to your teen about to see if they are in an abusive teen relationship or a victim of teen dating violence include:

• Jealous or controlling behavior, including over friends, appearance, and eating habits
• Sexual pressure
• Pressure to use drugs or alcohol
• Name-calling or swearing
• A partner losing his or her temper, blaming the other for his or her behavior
• A partner insulting or embarrassing the other in front of others
• Any form of physical violence
• A partner threatening to hurt others or him or herself

Warning signs of an abusive teen relationship or teen dating violence, including:

• Unexplained injuries
• Changes in appearance
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Giving up activities that were once enjoyed
• Changes in behavior or mood – acting depressed, anxious, or secretive, or acting out
• Alcohol or drug use
• Apologizing for or justifying a partner’s behavior – especially his or her temper
• Acting afraid of a partner, or worrying about making him or her angry
• One partner is possessive and makes all the decisions
• One partner insults, criticizes or embarrasses the other

Learn about ways to help at http://www.RoseBrooks.com

Simple ways to support the women and children in our shelter

How to be Impactful

Simply ways to support the women and children in our shelter

Oftentimes, it’s just hard to know how to get started. Volunteering when you don’t have enough time. Giving money when you don’t have much to give. It can all seem like too much. But in reality, supporting Rose Brooks Center doesn’t have to involve lots of time or money. Even a small gesture or monetary donation can have a huge impact on the women and children we help.

Here are some creative ways you can support Rose Brooks Center and have a positive impact on families in your community:

Just Imagine: It’s 2AM, he’s asleep, and you and your boys are finally ready to escape. Maybe you throw some clothes in a bag. But do you take time to pack up your kid’s toys? Medicine? Toiletries? Probably not. Help us provide essential everyday items: aspirin, diapers, feminine hygiene products, toothpaste, contact solution, a hair brush. The simplest items can mean the difference between a shelter and a home.

Home for the Holidays: Remembering Rose Brooks Center during the Winter holidays is important, but don’t forget the rest of the calendar. When you find a great deal on 4th of July decorations, buy some extras and bring them to shelter. When you and your kids are making cookies for Valentine’s Day, decorate an extra dozen and share the season with our residents.

Be our Ambassador: You are our best fundraiser! People are much more willing to support a cause if they’re asked to do so by a friend. So, share the Rose Brooks Center story with everyone you know. Invite your friends for a tour or host an informational cocktail party. You never know who may be listening.

Go Green: One of the greatest (and most affordable) gifts you can give Rose Brooks Center is your email address. Help the environment and cut our costs with just a click of your mouse. Don’t forget to plug into our social media too – Facebook, Twitter and YouTube are excellent ways to spread our mission.

Small things mean a lot when you don’t have anything and are just trying to get back on your feet. Don’t ever underestimate the enormous impact your donation of time, talent or treasure can have on the women and children staying at Rose Brooks Center.

Learn more at http://www.RoseBrooks.org

Jennie had an incredible spirit…

Dear Risk Hope,

Jennie had an incredible spirit, a magnificent smile and a beautiful singing voice. She was a caring, loving and generous person. In her short life and through her death she touched the lives of multitudes of people. Jennie was a daughter, sister, mother, niece, cousin and a friend to hundreds. She was always the light of our lives.

Let me advise you women who are presently in abusive situations. Ask for help. Do not be embarrassed. Do not allow someone else to break your spirit. It is not your fault. Abuse is nowhere near love. It is the opposite. It is sick. It is evil. It is deadly. Help is available.

Let me say to families and friends who suspect abuse to be aware and alert to the signs and take action. Mothers, if you have a gut instinct that something is wrong—it probably is. Call for help; get her out of the situation.

A mother is supposed to protect her children. I could not protect Jennie from the ultimate abuse of murder. I know she would want her life and death to make a difference by helping to save the lives of others in similar situations. We made a promise to Jennie that we would support and help one another in memory of her. My family truly believes that good will come out of this tragic event. Hopefully the brutal murder of the one we love so dearly will serve as a warning to others before it is too late.

These words from Martina McBride’s song “She’s a Butterfly” aptly describe my feelings about my precious daughter Jennie:

Like the purest light, in a darkened world
So much hope inside such a lovely girl
You should see her fly, it’s almost magical
It makes you wanna cry, she’s so beautiful.

Jennie, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. Fly with the angels! We will never forget you.

Mom

Jennie Burton was murdered in May 2005 by her ex-husband.  She left behind two daughters, Isabella and Chelsea.  Chelsea is now a new mother herself, and named her daughter Jennifer, after her mother.

Visit http://www.RoseBrooks.org to see how you can support our mission.