Brenda Clubine

On Tuesday we went to Estrella Mountain Community College. Again this was an absolutely amazing experience where I’ve no doubt we made a difference in the lives of those who attended.

Our Red Flag warning signs campaign truly makes a difference. These young people in particular are able to truly understand when there is something that is tangible in front of them like me being there in person, not just on the screen in the film.

I was able to physically see the change in the faces of these young people as they listened and began to ask how they can help and where they can possible make a difference.

The Professor Olga was so open and concerned about the emotional aspect of the young people attending and that they know there were immediate counselors on site to assist anyone needing help.

As I spoke, at a table somewhat in my direct line of sight was a young woman that kept placing her hands up to cover her face. I knew that she was crying and that some if not all that I was sharing was hitting too close to home as they say.

When talking to these young people I always make a point of stating that “if you are getting more than 10 texts a day from the personal that you are involved with then that is a red flag warning it could become abusive.

After speaking many people, young and old alike line-up to personally thank me and many times share their personal connections with abuse. When it came to the young woman who had been sitting in my line of sight, I knew the moment I placed my arms around her something was wrong. She began to sob and we sat while she shared her story with me regarding how abuse has touched her life and what she was currently facing with her father being held responsible for what he put not only her mother but her siblings through with his abusive behavior and threats.

It was a good feeling to know this young lady trusted me enough to share her silent tragedy and I immediately got her connected with the organization that was there in connection with us called The New Life Center. This amazing agency offers women and families the opportunity to seek a safe place, obtain support advocates and be able to begin their life again free from abuse.

What a sense of knowing that we are truly making a difference…..