Media Relations
William Woods University

Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women in the U.S., with an individual beaten or assaulted every nine seconds. It causes more harm than muggings, rapes and car accidents combined.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness month, so William Woods University’s Delta Chi chapter of Alpha Chi Omega has been sponsoring events to raise awareness of the problem. Domestic Violence Awareness is Alpha Chi Omega’s national philanthropy.

The Coalition Against Rape and Domestic Violence (CARDV) will show a 60-minute documentary about a real case of domestic violence at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 30, in the Library Auditorium. A short discussion will follow the film, led by Elizabeth Wilson, director of the social work program. Hosted by actress and activist Mariska Hargitay, and told by detective Deirdri Fishel, "Telling Amy’s Story" follows the timeline of a domestic violence homicide that occurred Nov. 8, 2001.

The Alpha Chis also held a Clothesline Project Oct. 24. The annual event involves a speaker who has experienced domestic violence.  Participants were then invited to design t-shirts that support domestic violence awareness. 

The women work closely with CARDV as volunteers and donors. Throughout the month, members of the William Woods community are invited to drop off toiletry and baby items such as diapers and toothbrushes at the Alpha Chi chapter house.  Everything collected will be taken to CARDV.

Alpha Chi Omega held a luminary ceremony to kick off Domestic Violence Awareness Month and then hosted the annual Haircuts for CARDV and barbecue.  The women paid $15 for every man who offered to have his hair shaved.  Dinner was also available for purchase or with a donation.

Earlier in the semester, they assisted CARDV in a community night at Dairy Queen, raising about $400 from a portion of sales.

The women of Alpha Chi Omega also host a philanthropy week each February, Lyre Fest.  Greek organizations from William Woods and Westminster College are encouraged to help raise money and awareness throughout the three-day event involving several competitions between the chapters.

CARDV provides 24-hour services to women and children who have experienced domestic violence.  They offer shelter, legal support and counseling to all victims, and served more than 1,000 women and children in 2011.  For information on volunteering or donating, call (573) 642-1418.

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