GRAWA selects nonprofit for Directors’ Award

RESOLVE of Greater Rochester Inc. has been named the recipient of the Greater Rochester Association for Women Attorneys Directors’ Award.

The GRAWA Directors’ Award originated in 1986 and has been awarded to exceptional community leaders including the late Rep. Louise Slaughter, Susan B. Anthony House, Ibero-American Action League and the National Council of Jewish Women.

“The Greater Rochester Association for Women Attorneys bestows its Directors’ Award upon a person or organization whose activities enhance the lives of women,” said GRAWA President Carey Ann Denefrio. “This year, GRAWA would like to recognize RESOLVE for the important work it does providing innovative therapeutic services to those affected by intimate partner violence.”

Denefrio said GRAWA was impressed by the success rate of RESOLVE’s Survivor Transition Program and the fact that cost is not a barrier to obtaining therapy.

“GRAWA also appreciates RESOLVE’s role as collaborator and community educator to mental and behavioral health professionals,” Denefrio added.

RESOLVE’s mission is to develop and deliver innovative, community-centered programs and services that empower people and communities to break the cycle of domestic violence. The nonprofit organization is a leader in therapeutic intervention and community education for domestic violence and intimate partner violence. In addition to its Survivor Transition Program, RESOLVE offers the Intimate Partner Violence Workshop for Mental Health Professionals and ACT: A Trauma-Informed Self Protection Course.

“One in three women, one in seven men and nearly half of the LGBTQ+ community will experience intimate partner violence in their lifetime. Right now, there is an increase in IPV with the COVID-19 stay home mandates,” said RESOLVE’s Interim CEO Mary Whittier. “According to Gov. Cuomo’s briefing on May 1, domestic violence reports in New York State were up 15 percent in March and 30 percent in April.

“This award couldn’t have come at a better time,” Whittier added. “It highlights the critical work we are doing in our community and the monetary award will help support our innovative programs. During the COVID-19 crisis, RESOLVE is offering teletherapy, phone counseling and virtual group therapy for domestic violence survivors.”

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