Don't die for love STOP DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Johnnie started volunteering at the Mid-Minnesota Women's Center in Brainerd, several years ago as an advocate and answering phones. Through this experience it became clear to her that she must do much more than just answer phones and go to court with these victims. This is when she started to speak on the issue every time she was given the opportunity. Speaking brings awareness of the violence these victims must live with every day. It also made her more aware that many women didn't know where they could go and how to get the help they so desperately needed.
She is currently waiting to have a bill passed that she authored that would make October "Minnesota Domestic Violence Awareness" month. Though it is nationally known, we in Minnesota do not recognize it except Todd County, and Morrison County.
In September 2007, we held what would become our annual "Walk A Mile In Her Shoes" in the Brainerd Lakes Area. This walk literally puts men in women's shoes. The day was proclaimed as "Walk a Mile in her Shoes" day for the Lakes Area by the Brainerd and Baxter mayors. This walk was for a serious issue, but everyone had fun. Johnnie put two years of planning into making the first walk a reality. Planning will be underway for the sixth annual walk that will take place on August17,2013. Please plan to attend. We promise that everyone will enjoy themselves.
In 2011, she started loom knitting hats to donate to local charities and hospital In 2011 she was honor to receive the "The Spirit Award," an award that promotes Friendship and Sportsmanship by Pageantry.Currently she is volunteering at Mid-Minnesota Women Center, Hands of Hope,and public speaking.Recently, she was proud to become a member of Board of Director for Hands of Hope.
For more information about Domestic Violence go to: www.ncadv.org National Coaltion Against
Domestic Violence) www.mcbw.org/femicides,or NCVC (NationalCenter fir Victims of Crimes)