Two of South Santa Clara County’s most steadfast and devoted
foot soldiers in the struggle against domestic violence were
honored by the community Friday.
Morgan Hill
Two of South Santa Clara County’s most steadfast and devoted foot soldiers in the struggle against domestic violence were honored by the community Friday.
Morgan Hill Police Commander David Swing and victims’ advocate Debbie Ruiz were the recipients of Community Solutions’ sixth annual “Helping Hands and Healing Hearts” luncheon and fundraiser at the Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center.
Swing was the recipient of the “Helping Hands” award for his successful efforts, through the MHPD, to acquire federal funding for local programs that assist victims of domestic violence, and for implementing incident response training for other officers, Community Solutions Director of Development Lisa DeSilva said.
Receiving the award in front of a crowd of about 200 people, Swing explained that domestic violence is a difficult problem to solve because it “does not know the boundaries” of race, income level, or education.
“How do we address these complex social issues? Through collaboration, combined resources and partnering services,” Swing said. “I look forward to continuing to work on creative solutions and long-term strategies.”
He noted the MHPD has addressed domestic violence locally through the “status offender program,” which directs young people away from crime, and by advocating an immediate response to all incidents in Morgan Hill.
Debbie Ruiz received the “Healing Heart” award for her triumph in her own struggle, DeSilva said. Formerly a victim of an abusive relationship in which she was repeatedly victimized, Ruiz is now a victims’ advocate for Community Solutions. Working primarily out of the organization’s Hollister office, she assists victims with one-on-one counseling, and teaches a self-defense class for women.
Emotionally receiving her award Friday, Ruiz related her story of victimization in which she and her children were abused. She described the emotional and psychological toll such ongoing abuse has on a victim.
“I was brought up to be nurturing and giving, but I learned how to lie, and tell people I was doing great (while being abused),” Ruiz said. “I was so lost I couldn’t ask anybody for help.”
She eventually sought counseling from Community Solutions, who she credited for helping her. Ruiz laughed as she told how she applied for a job there because it offered health insurance.
After eight years working for Community Solutions, Ruiz knows that her experience helps her understand what other victims are going through. “I’m so grateful that when someone comes in, I can be patient and listen to their story,” Ruiz said.
Community Solutions, a nonprofit organization, provides victims’ assistance, mental health, and youth support services to residents of Santa Clara and San Benito counties.
DeSilva said this year’s crowd was the biggest that has ever attended the luncheon. She said last year’s luncheon, which was held at a smaller venue, raised about $25,000, and she expects Friday’s event raised close to the same amount.
“Helping Hands and Healing Hearts” is Community Solutions’ biggest fundraiser each year, raising money through ticket sales and raffling a wide variety of donated items. DeSilva said the organization is pleased with this year’s turnout and the fact that sponsorship is up overall, despite the ailing economy.
“I think (this fundraiser) shows in the tough economic times that people, particularly in South County, recognize there are needs here and they feel very strongly about wanting to do their part and support those needs.”
For more details about Community Solutions, visit www.communitysolutions.org.
