By Kaitlyn Gaynor
DAIS

Throughout October, communities across the country will mourn those whose lives were taken by domestic violence, celebrate the tremendous progress advocates have made over the years, and connect with one another to end domestic violence.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the Day of Unity held in October 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence to connect advocates across the nation working to end violence against women and their children.

Each year Domestic Abuse Intervention Services (DAIS) commemorates Domestic Violence Awareness Month by hosting a number of community events and awareness raising efforts.

The 2016 Dine Out for DAIS will take place Thursday, Oct. 6. Restaurants throughout Dane County will generously donate 10 percent of their sales on the day of the event to support DAIS and the thousands of women, children and men that DAIS serves each year. By participating in Dine Out for DAIS, diners are not only raising funds for DAIS, they are also raising awareness and supporting local businesses that care about the issue of domestic violence. Visit http://abuseintervention.org/dine-out/ to find a list of participating restaurants.

The Sixth Annual Dress for DAIS Fashion Show will be held Thursday, Oct. 20, at the Overture Center for the Arts. This event merges big city fashion with the style and generosity of the Madison area. Tickets to the Dress for DAIS Fashion Show can be purchased by calling 807-4021 or online at http://abuseintervention.org/fashion-show/.

DAIS will host its final 2016 Community Education Event entitled “What Does It Mean to Support a Survivor?” Wednesday, Oct. 26, at 7 pm in the Community Room at DAIS, 2102 Fordem Ave. The DAIS Community Services Team will share their knowledge and wisdom of what it means to help or support a family or friend who is dealing with domestic abuse. This event is free and open to the public. For more information or to RSVP, visit http://abuseintervention.org/about/events/.