4,774,000. The amount of women who experience domestic violence by an intimate partner every year. Bumps, bruises and broken bones are evidence of this ongoing struggle that is effecting the United States.  Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44 in the United States — more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.

Stand Up Placer, located in Auburn, is helping to stop abuse against women in Placer County. Michelle Coleman, the executive director of Stand Up Placer, explained the services they provide and their goal for Stand Up Placer.

“Stand Up Placer provides comprehensive services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and child witnesses to the violence, as well as human trafficking survivors with a goal of providing them with the skills, tools and support to build the lives they design free from violence,” Coleman said.

They don’t stop there. They are willing to help individuals with substance abuse problems as well.

“If they need assistance with a substance abuse problem in addition to domestic or sexual violence issues, we would refer them to our partners in the community so that they can address those issues while working with us,” Coleman said.

Without volunteers, Stand Up Placer would not be able to do any of the things that they do.

“There are a number of ways to support Stand Up Placer. [People can] volunteer, create or participate in educational opportunities, donate clothing and house items and [give] financial[ly],” Coleman said.

Coleman said, “Stand Up Placer has a 24 hour Crisis Line staffed by trained counselors at 800-575-5352.  If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic violence, dating violence or sexual violence the counselors are available to assist you beginning with the safety planning process.”

by EVA MEEKS