Stop Domestic Violence with Voice

Hello all! My name is Kristen, but my friends call me Zory.  I am a current student at Pennsylvania  Institute of Technology studying to be a physical therapy assistant who also has a passion for helping others. Especially those who have ever experienced any sort of sexual violence or domestic abuse. As a survivor myself, I know how extremely difficult and loanly the road is that both women and men experience when they try to get away from their abuser.  So what I want to do is educate others on recognizing the signs; how to get out of the relationship as safely as possible; connect them to resources;  what they can expect from family, friends, police, and the justice system; and how they can find love and happiness afterward. The presentation would also give useful information to friends and family of those who have or are in this situation.

This is where you come in. In order to go educate I need funding! The money will go toward the cost of research, tools and costs for video and editing, travel, food, lodging, supplies, tickets to conferences to present and network, etc. The additional funds that are beyond what I need will go toward assisting people in shelters, providing additional lectures and workshops for people in need, and any other ideas/suggestions I get. I am sure I will find some places in need of additional resources I can help!

Elaborating a bit further on my story and goals if the above hasn't convinced you: As I said my friends call me Zory and I'm a DV survivor. Life was extremely difficult after leaving my abusive partner for the final time. I ended up moving half way across the country, far away from everyone and everythingI knew, and starting my life over. The whole experience was overwhelming, scary, and confusing. I did a ton of research to attempt to make sense of what had happened to me. I didn't exactly fit the mold of a victim.  

Since then I have put together a few papers, poster presentations, educational videos, and more. There'sstill so much I need to do and accomplish! However, since starting the physical therapy assistant program, I haven't had any time do do much outside of studying and work. Currently, I work as community support with people who have various mental disabilities, a tutor at PIT, and am student body president. 

If if you could possibly even spare a dollar, it would mean the world to me and could possibly make the world of difference to someone else. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Sincerely,

  Zory