Reno's Committee to Aid Abused Women, or CAAW, helps dozens of local families find healing and hope after abuse. That's why the Lowe's at the Legends at Sparks Marina chose CAAW to be the recipient of its "Helping Heroes" project.
On Saturday, crews spent hours making little improvements that will go a long way in more ways than one. It was a lot of work, inside and out. And now, CAAW's traditional housing facility on Seventh Street is looking better. It's a step in the right direction, a similar path, for the women who have lived here before.
"They helped me get a sense of stability for myself and my daughter; we didn't have anywhere to go at the time and they helped me get myself back together after leaving my ex-husband," explains Amy Panelli, a Reno mom who found help from CAAW. Panelli was able to get her life -- and her daughter's -- back on track. But unfortunately, Panelli is not alone.
"Domestic violence is a huge issue," says Denise Yoxsimer, CAAW's executive director. "One in four women nationally will experience domestic violence in their lifetime."
"If I didn't come into this program, I wouldn't have been able to get where I am today," says Panelli.
CAAW's housing facility is made up of seven units, which now have a fresh coat of paint. Crews also installed a new fence, poured a new concrete walkway and topped it all off with a little landscaping.
"It's something that's been needed for such a long time in the community," says Panelli, "and I'm so thrilled that it's happening because no place deserves it better than here!"
Panelli has advice for any woman who feels trapped in an abusive situation.
"If you're in trouble, be brave and call. It sucks, it's scary, it's humiliating, but call. It's the safest and best thing you can do."
The Committee to Aid Abused Women has a 24-hour hotline. That number is 329-4150.
Written by Rebecca Cronon
