This month marks the 25th anniversary for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which began in 1987. One in four women will be the victim of domestic violence at some point in her life, and on average, three women are killed every day at the hands of a current or former intimate partner, according to the Domestic Violence Awareness Month website nrcdv.org/dvam.

Crime Victims Resource Center at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin has been assisting victims of crime in Mower County for 35 years. In 2011, CVRC provided direct services to 230 domestic violence victims and their families. In 2012, CVRC continues to see a trend of increasing victims.

CVRC Director Tori Miller said the recession has had a devastating effect on domestic violence victims everywhere.

“While the economy does not cause domestic violence, it can make it worse,” she said. “Since we are a fully-funded program by grants, including the United Way of Mower County, we also have seen a significant decrease in funding available to help victims. That’s where our volunteers can make a difference.”

Volunteering helps victims alleviate some of the negative effects domestic violence creates. For more information on domestic violence or how to become a volunteer, contact the CVRC at 507-437-6680.