Team Katie - Running to End Domestic Violence

For Katie! We are raising funds and awareness to help end domestic violence 
in memory of Kathleen Rafferty Petrocco.

Katie was a loving mom, a fiercely loyal friend, devoted sister and daughter, and the life - and often the host - of every party. She also suffered several forms of abuse over the course of her marriage, and while alive was the documented victim of domestic violence. 

Domestic violence is born in secret and thrives on silence. We have to shine a bright light on abuse to let those who are suffering know they are not alone and that we will help them reach the safety, security, and peace they deserve. More than just raising dollars, Team Katie is running the Denver Colfax Marathon to raise consciousness of how pervasive domestic violence is in our community. Together, we will be a beacon for those who are isolated and afraid, and we will give hope for getting out. 

Victims of abuse can never "just leave." Our charity partner, Project Safeguard (PSG), recognizes that, and so provides a suite of services to victim-survivors of gender-based violence (including but not limited to domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking) in utilizing the civil legal system to increase safety and move forward from the trauma of their victimization. The organization supports survivors in the process of obtaining and enforcing civil protection orders, navigating complex and contentious divorce and custody proceedings, and accessing immigration protections available as a result of their victimization.

PSG’s non-attorney legal advocates specialize in intensive assistance for survivors who are ready to pursue civil legal solutions. Through Safety Planning, Legal Advocacy, and Attorney Services, PSG supports victim-survivors when they need it most in the complicated, often traumatizing legal proceedings. It is estimated that custody proceedings involving domestic violence can cost protective mothers over $90,000. One the most pervasive, but least talked about forms of abuse is financial control. Why do victims stay when they are being abused? Very simply, many cannot afford to leave. 

February 2022 advocacy training from Voices Against Violence. We must debunk the myth that victims of abuse should "just leave," as there are so many barriers to escaping abuse.

Navigating the legal system is complex and intimidating for anyone, and that is even more true for people who have experienced violence or abuse. PSG works to level the playing field and create more equitable access to the civil legal system for survivors, by working alongside them to make the process a little less daunting. Without such a resource, people are more likely to give up and see abuse as their only option. PSG’s model of pairing wrap-around civil legal advocacy with long-term, multi-issue legal representation for survivors of gender-based violence is unique in Metro Denver.

Thank you for giving in memory of Kathleen Rafferty Petrocco, November 16, 1982-July 14, 2019.                       May she rest in power.