Upcoming Events: Sexual Assault & Child Abuse Awareness Month

April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Child Abuse Prevention Month and we at TDJ wholeheartedly support the mission of Athens' The Cottage Sexual Assault Center and Children's Advocacy Center.

In 2010, The Cottage served over 400 adult and child survivors of past sexual assault and/or sexual molestation in our area. The hardworking staff at The Cottage, along with many volunteers, board members, law enforcement, and other partner agencies, work tirelessly to bring advocacy and support to survivors and families impacted by child abuse and sexual assault. They also work year round to raise awareness and provide prevention education to our community, and have taken over 500 calls on their crisis hotline.

The Cottage is hosting various events throughout the month of April to bring awareness to sexual assault and child abuse within our community. Get involved and help support The Cottage by learning more about sexual assault, participating in one of these events, or by visiting their website.

Wednesday, April 6th:
"Dine out for The Cottage" - On The Border (3640 Atlanta Hwy, Athens) *Present this coupon

Thursday, April 7th:
"Take Back the Night" - UGA Tate Center (12-6 p.m.)
Take back the night from the fear of sexual violence. This lively demonstration is to take back the night for predators against women, men and children.

Sunday, April 10th:
"Dine out for The Cottage" - DePalma’s Italian Café (2080 Timothy Rd., Athens) *Present this coupon

Tuesday, April 12th - Friday, April 15th:
Information tables at the Melting Point's events throughout the week.

Wednesday, April 20th:
"Free Self-Defense Classes" - UGA Memorial Hall (9 a.m.-4 p.m.)
Join The Cottage, UGA Institute for Women’s Studies, and American Black Belt Academy for free self-defense classes.

Friday, April 29th & Saturday, April 30th:
Spreading awareness at Athens' Twilight Criterium.

Friday, May 6th:
“Survivors to Supporters, A Cottage Celebration” - Nuci’s Space, Athens (7-10 p.m.)
Join The Cottage in a Celebration of those who have survived sexual assault and those who support the sexual assault awareness and prevention cause. A $5 donation at the door will include food, music, speakers, silent auction, and raffle prizes.*

These donation will help The Cottage to continue their mission to lessen the traumatic effects of child abuse and sexual assault within our community. We hope to see you there!

* Raffle tickets are $10 each or 3 for $25. Prizes include a week-long beachfront stay in Panama City,
16 GB iPad (Generation 1), Athens Date Night Package (1 night's stay at the Holiday Inn Athens, $50 Gift Certificate to the Classic Center, and gift certificate at a downtown restaurant). Winners will be drawn at the Survivors & Supporters Celebration on May 6th. Do not need to be present to win. Contact Kelly DeFilipis for more information.