Samantha Sherman - Domestic Violence Support

Hi! My name is Samantha Sherman and this year I have the great privilege of serving on the Jewish Teen Foundation (JTF) north board. JTF is made up of a tight-knit group of passionate teens who want to support change in underprivileged populations by researching, fundraising, and grantmaking. Throughout JTF's process, we learn the value of philanthropy and core skills such as leadership, collaboration, and empathy.

After lots of research and discussion, this past October, our JTF board came to a consensus on the population we would like to focus on this year: individuals and families affected by domestic violence. As a collective, we crafted the following mission statement:

The Jewish Teen Foundation North Board is committed to supporting individuals and families affected by domestic violence through organizations/initiatives that provide direct support, relocation assistance, and prevention services in order to mitigate domestic violence and help survivors approach recovery and self-sufficiency. 

Domestic violence often goes unnoticed and therefore perpetuates what can turn into years of unsafe emotional, mental, and physical health. From my preliminary research, I was so surprised to learn that: 

• More than 12 million people experience domestic violence per year in the US
  • 1 in 4 women experience domestic violence in their lifetime 
  • 1 in 7 men experience domestic violence in their lifetime
• 30% to 60% of intimate partner violence perpetrators also abuse children in the household
• Survivors are 2 times more likely to develop symptoms of depression and 3 times more likely to develop a major depressive disorder

*All data from the National Domestic Violence Hotline and National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

Although domestic violence is a greatly taboo subject, together, that we can support those impacted and help victims and their families reach recovery and self-sufficiency. No one deserves to feel unsafe in their own home.  Every dollar will go to nonprofits which we have carefully vetted, so you can rest assured your donation will have the greatest impact! My goal is to raise $3000 total and have already donated $250 of my own money. I hope you will join me! The deadline is April 10. 

Thank you so much for your support! If you have any questions or want to learn more, please reach out to me at sjshermantag@gmail.com or 415-963-1463. 

Thank you for your generosity and spreading the word by sharing this link!