DOVE receives new grant from NFL

IRONWOOD –– Dove Inc. has received a new grant, funded by the National Football League, to support domestic and sexual violence victims through community agencies with traditionally underserved populations.

The NFL provided the National Sexual Violence Resource Center with funds to support hotline services for victims of sexual violence nationally, and the NSVRC distributed a portion of this funding to each state or territory coalition.

The Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault, one of Dove's partners, has distributed $1,350 to Dove to help maintain access to the 24/7 sexual assault and crisis hotline.

Though the grant came through WCASA, the funds will be used in both Michigan and Wisconsin, said Dove's Director Deanna Kennedy.

"It's going to be the start of a good, effective, comprehensive service level for Dove," Kennedy said about what the grant will do for the agency.

According to Jeanine Winkowski, Dove's grant coordinator, the funds are specifically designated for supporting the hotline service and raising awareness about the service.

Dove plans to boost awareness by creating stickers and posters with the hotline number listed to display in community spaces such as bars and restaurants, and hopes that this increased visibility in public places will help prevent some sexual assault from happening.

Though domestic violence and sexual assault cannot always be prevented, both Winkowski and Kennedy want victims to feel comfortable reporting any incidents that occur.

"This way we can get involved with them from the start," Winkowski said, mentioning Dove cares about what happens locally.

"We're here. We're not going anywhere," she said.

Kennedy hopes increased hotline awareness will allow victims to come forward so Dove can support them from the initial report through prosecution.

For assistance, call the 24/7 crisis hotline at 906-932-0310 or toll-free at 800-711-6744.