www.cadaMN.org
Fall 2016
CADA Programs
Emergency Safety Shelter
P.O. Box 466
A Message from CADA
Dear Friends of CADA,
October is Domestic Violence Awareness month, a time to mourn the loss of
victims of domestic violence homicides and to honor the strength of the women,
men and children who have survived violence in their lives.
The statistics are staggering. We know that 1 in 4 women will be victims of some
type of domestic or sexual violence in their lives. That rate increases with
underserved populations. In a CDC study, 39% of Native women surveyed,
identified as victims of intimate partner violence in their lifetime, with 70% of
those assaults being committed by someone of another race. For folks who
identify as LGBT, up to 50% have experienced domestic or sexual abuse.
And maybe after seeing those numbers you want to help, and may ask “What can
I do?” There is so much you can do. You can attend a CADA event, donate some
of the items on our wish list, or volunteer! You could also create hope like the
Wetterling family, who despite an unimaginable loss asked that our communities
come together to create a movement of kindness and compassion to combat
violence. She asked that we do these 11 things in honor of Jacob:
1. Be
2. Be
3. Be
4. Be
5. Be
6. Be
7. Be
8. Be
9. Be
10. Be
11. Be
fair
kind
understanding
honest
thankful
a good sport
a good friend
joyful
generous
gentle with others
positive
So simply put, what we ask of our community is to think of the folks behind those
numbers, behind those statistics. They are our neighbors, our teachers, our
children, our brothers and sisters, and our friends. And take note from folks like
the Wetterlings who are doing all they can to create a little hope in the world.
CADA Staff
Mankato, MN 56002-0466
507-625-8688 Business
800-477-0466 Crisis
Keep Me Safe
Parenting Time Center
P.O Box 466
Mankato, MN 56002-0466
507-625-8688 Business
CADA of Blue Earth County
100 Stadium Court
Mankato, MN 56001
507-625-8688 Business
CADA of Le Sueur County
CADA of Nicollet County
322 S. Minnesota Ave
St. Peter, MN 56082
507-934-5583
CADA of Faribault County
P.O. Box 203
Blue Earth, MN 56013
507-526-5275 Business
CADA of Waseca County
P.O. Box 348
Waseca, MN 56093
507-835-7828 Business
CADA of Watonwan County
55 8th Street South
St. James, MN 56081
507-375-3040 Business
CADA of Brown County
P.O. Box 671
New Ulm, MN
507-233-6663 Business
CADA of Sibley County
P.O. Box 671
New Ulm, MN
507-233-6663 Business
SOUTHERN MN OFFENDER EDUCATION PROGRAM (SMOEP):
CADA’S NONVIOLENCE PROGRAM FOR MEN
Jason Mack
Conflict is a normal part of all relationships. All people get angry, feel hurt, and have arguments. We all choose
how we’re going to act and react to conflict. When someone uses violence, threats, or forces someone to do
something, that is abuse. Domestic abuse is a pattern of abusive behavior that is used by one partner to gain
or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Over 90% of people who commit this type of
violence are men. Men who use violence may blame their anger or temper, their partner or ex-partner, drugs,
or alcohol for their actions. However, blaming someone or something else doesn’t make the violence stop. That
is where the Southern Minnesota Offender Education Program (SMOEP) comes in.
SMOEP’s nonviolence program is a domestic violence intervention (DVI) program that meets all Minnesota
State Statute requirements for DVI programing. The number one goal of SMOEP is to keep victims safe. Our
second goal is to hold men accountable for their actions. We believe that when victims are safe and men are
held accountable while being supported to change, our community is a safer and healthier place. Our
nonviolence program educates participants on the causes of domestic violence, the spectrum of behaviors that
are abusive, and what it takes to make lasting changes. People frequently believe that domestic violence is
caused by anger, stress, poor communication skills, problems with alcohol or drugs, or the loss of control.
Although some of these factors may contribute to the problem, like pouring gas on a fire, and may make it
seem easier to choose violence, they are not the reason for the violence. Violence is not about losing control,
but rather about trying to get control over a person or situation. Domestic violence occurs when someone
decides to use physical, sexual, emotional, and/or spiritual abuse to get their way – or to make someone do
something, stop them from doing something, or punish them.
We know that men who use violence do so because of their belief systems. When men act on beliefs based on
hierarchy, entitlement, self-centeredness, and control, they believe they have the right to do whatever it takes
to get the other person to do what they want. SMOEP nonviolence classes examine these beliefs, the effects of
these beliefs on participants and others, and the way new beliefs can move them towards nonviolence and
equality.
CADA’s Southern Minnesota Offender Education Program Works with Men to Keep Victims Safe.
The program is an open enrollment course lasting 27 weeks, and is currently being offered in Mankato and St.
Peter. SMOEP accepts referrals from all counties within Region Nine of Southern Minnesota. Our program is
unique in its level of collaboration with criminal justice system partners which enables greater safety for victims
and increased accountability for men. It is an intensive program that works with participants to create change
on a deep, internal level. In the program, facilitators support men to take responsibility for their violent and
abusive actions. Facilitators ask participants to recognize that they have a choice in the matter. Program
participants must be willing to give up power and control and strive for equality. They must see how their
abusive behaviors can and have destroyed relationships, people, dreams, and how they can ultimately destroy
their children’s future.
Throughout the process, men are invited to:
• Examine their belief system and behaviors that support violence.
• Expand definitions of violence and controlling behaviors.
• Discuss the effects of violence on women, children and themselves.
• Identify and practice non-controlling alternatives.
Changing a belief system is a lifelong journey that is both challenging and rewarding. Over the long term,
SMOEP nonviolence classes benefit not only participants, their partners, and families, but also the community
as a whole. For more information, contact the program coordinator: Jason Mack, M.A. [email protected] or
507-625-8688 ext. 112
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TRANSFORMING THROUGH THEATRE
Brittany Wojtowicz
CADA is pleased to present “Out of Our Minds,” an
original script written with survivors of domestic
violence, to be performed on October 27 at 7 p.m. at
the Coffee Hag in Mankato. For 13 weeks this
summer, survivors were invited to participate in parts
one and two of a three-part theatre group facilitated
by Angie Frank, an artist with 12 years of experience
designing and implementing arts learning experiences
for underserved populations. In part one of the
project, “Finding Voice,” Frank worked with women in
the shelter to use improv and laughter as a means for
healing. Part two of the project, “Using Voice,”
explored similar themes in order to write the script for the upcoming performance. The performance, “Sharing
Voice,” will be the culmination of the project.
Natalia, an advocate in Blue Earth County, was present during the process of writing the script to provide
support for group members. “Using Voice theatre group was an amazing experience for the participants of
our domestic violence support group,” said Natalia. “It was amazing to see how the activities and
experiences helped the women to feel comfortable and to build a sense of community. The women became
very engaged in the process and are very much looking forward to seeing pieces of their story shared with
the community.”
The performance will be followed by a brief reception. The theatre project is a collaboration between CADA
and Heart Theatre, funded by the Clean Water Land & Legacy Amendment, through the MN State Arts Board.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the
only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead
Thank you to our staff who celebrated significant CADA anniversaries this year! We appreciate the
commitment these women have for victims of domestic and sexual violence. Their remarkable
contributions do not go unnoticed by staff, the community, or the victims they serve.
Shirley Knudson - 20 years
Deb Wiederhoft - 17 years
Melissa Ballman - 15 years
Stacy Thompson - 15 years
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DONATION WISH LIST
Good Night, Sleep Tight
 Robes
 Slippers
 Pillows
 Twin size sheets
 Nightlights
 Pull ups for older children
 Fans & White noise machines
 Pajamas for women & children
Hygiene Needs
 Cotton balls
 Q-Tips
 Hair brushes
 Hairspray
 Hair grease
 Lotion
 Maxi Pads
 Walmart gift cards
Back to School
 2 pocket folders
 Notebooks
 Markers
 Colored pencils
 Water paints
 Lunch bags
 Boxes of Kleenex
 Pens
 Walmart gift cards
Home Sweet Home
 Beds
 Couches
 Dining room table/chairs
 Pots & pans
 Dish sets
 Flat screen TVs & DVD players
 Vacuum cleaners
 Trash cans
 Brooms & mops
 Lamps
 Home décor
 Shower curtains
 Walmart gift cards
Baby On Board
 Baby wipes
 Size 5 diapers
 Baby shampoo
 Baby lotion
 New convertible car seats
 High back booster car seats
 Potty training potty chairs
 Walmart gift cards
Play Time
 Legos
 Board games
 Card games
 Basketball hoop
 Magneblocks
Bath Time!
 Bath Towels
 Body wash
 Conditioner
 Shaving gel/cream
Paint & Create
 12 canvases
 Acrylic paints
 Paintbrushes
 Walmart gift cards
On The Go
 Travel mugs
 Water bottles
 Cell phones & prepaid minute
cards
 Bus passes & tokens
 Cab vouchers
 Kwik Trip gas cards
Food Pantry
 Dried Foods
 Canned Foods
 Peanut butter
 Pasta
Please call Leticia at 507-625-8688 Ext. 100 or email at [email protected] if you have any questions,
or to have your donation preapproved.
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CADAcalendar
FALL 2016
Committee Against Domestic Abuse
OCTOBER 2016
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October 14: Lunch and Learn– Domestic Violence & Substance Abuse: A toolkit for
Professionals. Courtney DePew from the House of Hope will be presenting, 12-1 p.m.
October 14: Evidence-Based Response for Breaking the Cycle of Domestic Violence & Stalking at
Rasmussen College, 8-4 p.m.
October 15: Yoga on Tap Fundraiser, Mankato Brewery, 10 a.m.– Do a little self-care & support
families who have experience domestic abuse. All proceeds go to CADA.
October 17: CADA’s 2016 Mankato Area Community Vigil, Mankato Public Safety Center, 6-6:30 p.m.
Following the vigil, please join us at Jake's Stadium Pizza (330 Stadium Rd., Mankato). 10 percent of
food sales will be donated to CADA between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
October 26: Mankato Pizza Ranch Community Impact Fundraising Event, 4:30-8 p.m. All tips & 10%
of sales benefit CADA.
October 27: Sharing Voices: A Survivor-Led Theater Performance at the Coffee Hag, 7 p.m.
October 28: Lunch and Learn- Identifying and Responding to Men Who Use Violence: A Practitioner’s
Guide, 12-1 p.m.
You can now find a complete list of our events on our website’s Google calendar at:
www.cadamn.org/events.php or on our Facebook Events Page.
Visit www.cadaMN.org for updates and to register for events
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SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS
Green Dot Bystander Certification Training
In June, Sabrina, Julie, and Kim attended the
Green Dot bystander certification training hosted
by our friends at the Minnesota Coalition Against
Sexual Assault at the Wellstone Center in Saint
Paul, MN. We are excited to enhance our
bystander instructor training program, and a lot of
fun was had with others doing this work around
the state!
National Association of Social Workers
Safe at Home Program Recognized
Pictured above are advocates Kristen, Stacy and Erika
with Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon after
being honored for CADA's commitment and partnership
to the Safe at Home program in June.
CADA had two staff present at the NASW Annual
Conference in June. The topic, “Screen Intervene
Refer: Disrupting the Cycle of Violence,” focused
on screening and early intervention with victims of
domestic violence.
The session was well-attended, and participants
left with some great resources. Thanks for giving
CADA the opportunity to be present at the
conference NASW-MN Chapter!
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Motorcycle enthusiasts helped raise awareness about domestic and sexual violence, as well as child abuse in
the community, by participating in the 2nd Annual CADAkids Ride to Stop the Cycle at the Verizon
Wireless Call Center in Mankato in June.
CADA was honored to be a part of the Fundraiser for Molly Lorentz Nickal's children at the WOW!Zone on
Aug. 20. The turnout was spectacular, making it very obvious the positive impact Molly had on her community,
family, and friends. The guests who attended were also kind enough to donate some much needed items to our
shelter.
Committee Against Domestic Abuse
FALL 2016
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VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Ellen Brokl
CADA Pets Program Volunteer
CADA depends on the service of our
countless volunteers to run many of our
programs. Ellen Brokl is a volunteer with our
CADA Pets Program, which assists families fleeing violent homes
by caring for their beloved pets when owners are in our
emergency shelter.
Brokl, who is in her last semester at MNSU studying child
development and family studies and psychology, got involved with
the program after a guest speaker from CADA visited one of her
classes.
“I thought it was cool and I knew I had to look into it,” said Brokl,
who is currently caring for a client’s two dogs, as well as a friend’s
puppy.
“I basically just take care of them, feed them, take them on walks, give them love until the client is
ready to take them back,” she added.
While it was a challenge for the pets to get used to new surroundings, especially with having a puppy
around, Brokl said it didn’t take long for the dogs to settle into a routine.
Volunteering has become a way of life for Brokl, who has been serving others since she was in high
school. As a college student alone, she has offered her time and service to organizations such as the
Minnesota Council of Churches in Mankato, Fairview Ridges Hospital, and two local nursing homes.
“Just being able to help other people and not focus on yourself” is what drives Brokl’s willingness to
put other’s needs before her own. And, she added, “It’s just easy to give your time, so why not
help?”
How you can help!
We are need of fosterers to volunteer to keep both pets and family safe. The animals in need of
fostering range from small to large. Fostering and care would begin when the family enters
shelter, and ends once the family depart shelter.
If you can’t be a fosterer, you can still contribute financially:




$20 can feed a dog or cat for a month
$40 can cover basic shots
$40-$60 can spay or neuter a pet
$140 could board an animal for a week
Please contact [email protected] for more details!
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OUTREACH SPOTLIGHT
New Ulm Office Provides Positive Space for Clients and their Families
In Brown County, CADA serves victims of domestic and sexual violence through legal advocacy,
support groups, safety planning, and emotional support. We are dedicated to improving the services
provided to the victims and survivors we work with and continually strive to increase awareness
regarding domestic and sexual violence.
Construction has begun!
CADA has partnered with Brown County
Family Services to open a Keep Me Safe
Parenting Time Center in New Ulm. The goal
of KMS in Brown County is to provide a
positive, healthy, and nurturing environment
where children and their parents can be
assured that the parenting time and
supervised exchange will be conflict-free.
The need for a parenting time center, along
with an increase in program numbers, allowed
our advocates to move into a larger, more
suitable space to provide advocacy services to
our clients. In 2015, CADA of Brown County
served 348 women, men and children who are
survivors of domestic violence and 47
survivors of sexual violence.
We are fortunate in Brown County to have
numerous collaborations with other entities
who are also working to end the cycle of violence: the Brown County Attorney’s office, Brown County
Probation and child protection, law enforcement agencies from our entire service area, Brown County’s
Crime Victim Specialist and our area hospitals. Several efforts have been made to raise awareness in
our service area. Recently, our advocates have been able to present to the Sleepy Eye Medical Center,
the New Ulm High School, the Sleepy Eye High School, MBW, and the Brown County Human Rights
Commission.
The New Ulm office has two staff members, Sara Neidecker-Schoo and Ra’e Rolloff. Sara
Neidecker-Schoo holds her Bachelor’s Degree in Alcohol and Drug Counseling and has been an
advocate in Brown County since February of 2014. Ra’e Rolloff holds her Bachelor’s Degree in Gender
Women’s Studies and has served many facets of CADA, but most recently joined Brown County as an
advocate in June 2016.
Committee Against Domestic Abuse
FALL 2016
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CADA’S DONORS
July—September 2016
CADA is especially
grateful for its breadth of
support from individuals,
faith/community
organizations and public
and private grantors.
Your generous
contributions of dollars,
time, and essential basic needs bear witness to our
partnership in providing safety, promoting justice, and
preventing harm. Thank you!
Financial Donors
Alpha Chi Omega, MSU Mankato
Anonymous
Blue Earth Lions Club
Carol And Delford Moerke
City of Mankato
Dan & Mary Corcoran
Dean Gilbertson
Donna Weckwerth
Jack and Diann McGowan
Karen Huper
Kimberly And Richard Goerger
Linda Wenkel
Mary Flanagan Jeweler
MSOP- Moose Lake
United Fund of Garden City Township
United Fund of Le Sueur
Wendi Ringhofer
Women of Trinity Elcw
Wynn & Ginnette Kearney
In-Kind Donors
Alpha Chi Omega
Anonymous
Ashley Rug
Brenda Stevermer
Bridge Enterprises
Brittany Dziki
Chipotle
Cinnamon Spence
Claudia Eisberg
Elizabeth Schenda
Epiphany Lutheran Church
Food Not Bombs
Janet Kiehm
John And Kathleen Dorn
Jon Macemon
Josh Rucker
Julia Fette
Julianne Kwon
Katie Page
Laurie Engelby
Leann Wakey
Leslie Starr
Lexxi Pickell
Mallory Hoffman
Mankato Clinic
Marian Pomplun
Matt Norland
Megan Hoogland
Nancy Bruce
Olive Garden
Panera Bread
Patty Thompson
River Ridge Evangelical Free Church
Rosie Wingert
Rychelle Wettck
Sarah Beckstrom
Shelly S.
South Blue Earth Lutheran Church
Stephanie Holthus
Stephanie Smook
Target
Tandem Bagels
The Summit and Jacob Heights
Tristina Brown
UCC Church
Vickie Mickelson
Wendi Ringhofer
Word of Life Lutheran Church
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ADOPT-A-FAMILY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
If you are looking to provide some holiday cheer to a family in need this
holiday season, CADA will be accepting donations beginning Nov.21.
From individuals and families, to businesses and organizations,
everyone is welcome to adopt a family! For more information, please
contact 507-625-8688 ext. 105 or [email protected].
QUARTERLY VOLUNTEERS
AND INTERNS
A huge shout-out to this quarters’
volunteers and interns who help further
the work and mission of CADA!
FOLLOW CADA
You can now follow CADA on
Linkedin. We hope to
use the professional
networking site to
post jobs and monthly
trainings, so help
spread the word!
Committee Against Domestic Abuse
Allison Frandup
Andrea Vasquez
Ash-lee Conley
Bob Dickhudt
Cathy & Gizmo (pet therapy team)
Diane Thompson
Ellen Brokl
Frances Klopfleisch
Haley Krumm
Janie & Max (pet therapy team)
Jessica Ingbritson
Kaly Lee
Katie Grosz
Kinsey Fitzloff
Maenuna Sedibeh
Melanie & Lilly (pet therapy team)
Nana Asong
Paige Shoutz
Samantha Hanson
Samantha Humphrey
Steve Schoener
Taylor Scott
Tiffany & Liberty (pet therapy team)
FALL
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Committee Against Domestic Abuse, Inc.
FALL 2016
P.O. Box 466
Mankato, MN 56002-0466
Phone: 507-625-8688
Fax: 507-625-9431
www.cadaMN.org
Interim Executive Director
Sara Sinnard
CADA Board of Directors
Bob Sutter
Vickie Apel
Deanna Henderson
Mary Bliesmer
Al Kluever
Marie McVenes
Penny Vought
Jill Baker
Don Ebel
Chris Boyer
Candee Deichman
Sherrise Truesdale Moore
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