October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) is urging Sarasota and DeSoto County residents to join the movement, raising awareness, sharing resources, and standing up for survivors.
All month long, SPARCC will show up at local events and host activities designed to get people involved. Whether you throw on something purple, drop by a community gathering, or pitch in to support SPARCC’s mission, there’s a way for everyone to make an impact.
“Domestic Violence Awareness Month shows just how powerful a united community can be,” says Ning Tinsley, SPARCC’s Communications Manager. “Every conversation, every act of support, every time we speak up—these moments remind survivors they’re not alone and that help is real and close by.”
Here’s how you can join in:
SPARCC on Suncoast View
Wednesday, October 7
Catch SPARCC President & CEO Jessica Hays with Sandy from Molly Maid on air as they spotlight Molly Maid’s continued support and explore how you can get involved this October.
Collective Voices: From Silence to Strength
Saturday, October 10, 11 a.m.—3 p.m. | Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Spend an afternoon focused on awareness, connection, and hope. Jessica Johnston of SPARCC will share insights about sexual violence and the resources available for survivors.
Purple Thursday
Thursday, October 15
Pull out your best purple to show support. Snap a picture, share it online, and tag @SPARCC_Sarasota. Let’s turn the town purple together.
Stronger Together: Steps Against Violence
Friday, October 23, 5—7 p.m. | Lake Katherine, Arcadia
Walk with SPARCC. Let’s come together to raise awareness, support survivors, and take real steps towards a safer community.
25th Annual RASM Golf Tournament
Monday, October 26, Sara Bay Country Club
The REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee chose SPARCC as a community recipient this year. Join SPARCC at the tournament and support survivors while enjoying a day on the green.
GFWC International Day of Service—Supporting SPARCC
Tuesday, October 27, 10 a.m. The Bea Friedman Room at Florida Studio Theatre.
The GFWC Woman’s Club of Sarasota, Inc. and Elevate HER are collecting essential items for survivors and their children. Help and make a direct difference.
About SPARCC
SPARCC’s mission is to offer a safe haven while driving empowerment, awareness, and social change to end domestic and sexual violence. As the only state-certified center for these crucial services in Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, SPARCC provides all services free and confidentially. Alongside supporting victims, SPARCC works actively to promote social change through education and community outreach, striving to stop violence before it starts.
Want more information? Curious about SPARCC’s free, confidential services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, or eager to get involved? Head over to SPARCC.net.
