Domestic Violence Awareness Month — Supporting Survivors & the Community in Colorado

Domestic Violence Awareness Month — Supporting Survivors & the Community in Colorado

Each October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a nationwide time to shine a light on intimate partner violence, provide resources, and support survivors. At Aster Trauma Scene Cleaning, while our core mission is cleaning and restoration, this month reminds us of the broader need for community care, empathy, and connection. In Colorado, especially in areas like Douglas County, many survivors are seeking safe pathways and resources. This blog is not about our services but about raising awareness and offering actionable support.

1. Why Domestic Violence Awareness Matters

• Domestic violence can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or income, and often it occurs behind closed doors.

• When survivors don’t find support early, the impacts can ripple into mental health, housing stability, children’s well‐being, and even the built environment (such as when a home becomes unsafe).

• Awareness helps break the silence, dismantle stigma, and create safer, more resilient communities. Also, in Colorado our system of shelters and advocacy is expanding and evolving to meet demand.

2. Colorado & Douglas County Resources at a Glance

Here are trusted resources for survivors and allies in Colorado, particularly Douglas County:

• Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Victim Assistance: For emergency help call 9-1-1. For non‐emergency or advocacy support: (303) 660-7500 or Victim Assistance Advocate (303) 660-7535.

• The Crisis Center – Douglas County: A local nonprofit serving survivors of domestic violence with crisis services and transitional support. Phone: (303) 688-8484.

• Violence Free Colorado: The state‐wide coalition offering a searchable list of free and confidential agencies, support, and shelter options.

• Colorado Legal Services: Provides free civil legal aid to low-income residents statewide — helpful for protection orders, housing, or family law after abuse.

• Project Safeguard: For legal advocacy around domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking in the Denver metro area: 720-618-3482.

Emergency Hotline: If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
National Support: The National Domestic Violence Hotline — 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.

3. How You Can Raise Awareness & Support

• Wear purple this October. Purple is the national color for domestic violence awareness, it signifies strength, survival and support.

• Be an ally: Listen without judgement, believe the person, and help them explore options.

• Share trusted resources like those above on social media, in your workplace, or among friends, you might change a life.

• Advocate for local change: Our local shelters, safe-houses and funding pipelines need community support. For instance, Douglas County has recently purchased a facility to increase safe shelter capacity for survivors.

• Support survivors’ healing environments: A safe, clean, stable home matters. If you know someone leaving an abusive situation, helping them with cleanliness, stability and safety contributes to their recovery journey.

4. Signs & Some Hidden Forms of Abuse

Physical abuse is the most recognized form, but many other forms exist too (emotional, financial, coercive). Here are some red flags:

• Isolation from friends or family

• Frequent unexplained injuries or “accidents”

• Excessive control over finances or daily life

• Threats, intimidation or constant belittling

• Anxiety about “walking on eggshells” at home

If you notice these signs in someone’s situation, you can speak out, offer support, or share a resource you don’t need to carry the burden alone.

Closing

This October, as we mark Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let’s stand together for survivors, amplify their voices, and strengthen our community’s support system. Because healing isn’t just about surviving, it’s about building safety, dignity and empowerment ahead.
At Aster Trauma Scene Cleaning, we believe every person deserves a life free from fear. While our services focus on environments impacted by trauma, today is about the people behind those environments and the support systems that lift them up.

Contact Aster Trauma Scene Cleaning

Phone: 720.341.3296
Email: info@astertsc.com
Website: astertsc.com