To Our Community and Friends,

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October is a month with a lot of changes and activities. It is the start of a new fiscal year for Thrive, and given the many challenges Iowa has faced, our state funding has been significantly cut. This means there are some necessary organizational changes; however, our services remain the same. Our top priority continues to ensure that our victims/survivors are safe and receive the best care possible.

 

I’ve always believed that when one door closes, a new door opens. I firmly believe we will come out stronger and change is good. The 2023-2024 fiscal year will look different, but together we will come out stronger.

 

Even so, as a nonprofit organization, Thrive will need to rely on donations more than ever to maintain daily operations. Any support you can provide would be deeply appreciated. All donations are tax-deductible and it’s easy to donate! Just click here: https://www.thrivetogethertoday.org/donate, or mail your check to Thrive Together Today, 1660 42nd Street NE, Suite R, Cedar Rapids IA 52402. Thank you so much for your support.

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October is also Domestic Violence, Substance Abuse, and Bullying Awareness Month. Take a look at these disturbing statistics:

• Deaf children are three times more likely than hearing children to be abused in the United States.

• Over 60% of Deaf individuals have experienced or will experience abuse by a partner in their lifetime, compared to 40% of hearing individuals.

• Deaf and hard of hearing students experience bullying at rates as much as three times more than hearing students.

• Approximately 206,200 deaf and hard of hearing have experienced substance abuse.

 

These numbers are exactly why Thrive exists. Thrive continues to fight for the safety of our community and bring awareness about ending violence in our community. Visit our social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram, or our website www.thrivetogethertoday.org to find valuable resources.

 

Thrive has several exciting collaborations this month. Join us, our six Iowa sister organizations and Crème Bakery in Des Moines for “Cupcakes for a Cause”. Crème will be making special purple yam and coconut cupcakes, with every bite supporting the collaborating organizations. We are also partnering with other Deaf sister organizations in the Midwest to share valuable resources on working together to end violence.

 

In the meantime, we continue to seek alternate funding sources, and hope you can support us with your generous donations. Thank you for your continued encouragement and together, we can break down barriers and work to end violence for all.

 

All my best,

 

Jennifer