Tag Archive for: CAPSA

CAPSA’s Annual St. Nick’s Shop: Bringing Holiday Magic to Survivors and Their Families

 

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It’s that time of year again. The lights are twinkling, the air is crisp, and the spirit of giving is in full swing. At CAPSA, one of our most cherished traditions each holiday season is the Annual St. Nick’s Shop. This program brings the magic of the holidays to survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, and their families.

Every December, CAPSA transforms part of our facility into a warm, joyful, and completely free holiday shopping experience for our clients. Through the generosity of our incredible community, survivors can “shop” for gifts for their children and loved ones in a safe and supportive environment.

How It Works

The success of the St. Nick’s Shop depends entirely on community donations. Each year, generous individuals, families, businesses, and civic groups come together to fill the shop’s shelves with new, unwrapped gifts. These items are then displayed like a real store, where survivors can browse, choose, and wrap gifts for their loved ones, all at no cost.

This year, CAPSA is collecting new, unopened, and unwrapped gifts to stock the St. Nick’s Shop. Donations can be dropped off at our main office, located at:

308 W 1000 N, Logan, UT 84321

This year, donations are due by Monday, December 8

Your donations will directly support families in our community who are working toward healing and stability after abuse. Every gift you give helps make the holidays brighter for someone who truly deserves some light this season.

Gift Ideas for the St. Nick’s Shop

Not sure what to donate? Here are some ideas that are always appreciated:

  • Toys: Building sets, dolls, action figures, puzzles, stuffed animals, and games for all ages.
  • Beauty Supplies: Makeup, skincare sets, bath products, hair tools, and nail polish kits.
  • Art Supplies: Coloring books, paints, sketch pads, craft kits, and journals.
  • Board Games: Family-friendly games, card decks, or puzzles to encourage connection and fun.
  • Winter Clothing: Coats, gloves, hats, scarves, socks, and warm pajamas.
  • Electronics: Headphones, small speakers, tablets, or accessories.
  • Household Items: Blankets, small appliances, kitchen tools, or décor that can make a house feel more like home.

No matter the size or type of your gift, every contribution helps create a joyful and meaningful holiday for survivors and their families.

Why It Matters

At CAPSA, we know that the holidays can be particularly challenging for individuals and families who have experienced domestic violence or sexual assault. Many of our clients are starting over, rebuilding their lives from the ground up, and may not have the financial means to provide gifts or create the holiday experiences they wish for their children.

Your donations to the St. Nick’s Shop do more than fill shelves. They send a powerful message: you are seen, valued, and supported by your community.

When you donate to CAPSA’s St. Nick’s Shop, you’re not just giving a toy, a coat, or a game; you’re giving survivors the chance to celebrate the season with joy, dignity, and hope.

A Community That Cares

Each year, we’re deeply moved by the generosity of our community members, businesses, and volunteers who make the St. Nick’s Shop possible. From local families dropping off toys to corporate partners organizing donation drives, every act of giving contributes to a ripple of kindness that reaches far beyond the holidays.

Your support allows CAPSA to continue offering comprehensive, life-changing services year-round, from emergency shelter and therapy to housing assistance and advocacy. Together, we’re building a community where survivors can thrive, not just survive.

Join Us in Spreading Holiday Cheer

As you make your holiday plans and shopping lists this year, consider adding one more stop — CAPSA’s St. Nick’s Shop. Your contribution, no matter how small, helps create moments of magic and meaning for survivors and their families.

Drop off your new, unwrapped gifts by Monday, December 8, at CAPSA, 308 W 1000 N, Logan, UT 84321.

Let’s make this holiday season one of hope, compassion, and community.

Together, we can fill the shelves and the hearts of survivors across Cache Valley.

Donate or Learn More at capsa.org/donate

Join the Purple Promise: Take a Stand This Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Every October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) brings communities together to honor survivors, raise awareness, and inspire action. This year, CAPSA invites local businesses and organizations to take part in a powerful new movement: the Purple Promise.

The Purple Promise is more than a pledge; it’s a commitment to help end domestic violence and build a safer, stronger community for everyone. By joining, your business becomes a visible ally in the fight to create a future free from abuse.

What the Purple Promise Means

When your business makes the Purple Promise, you’re standing side by side with survivors, advocates, and community members who believe that safety, respect, and compassion should be universal.

By taking the Purple Promise, you pledge to:

1. Stand for Safety

You affirm your support for survivors and your dedication to promoting healthy, respectful relationships. Domestic violence affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. By taking a public stand, your business sends a powerful message that everyone deserves to live free from fear and harm.

2. Strengthen Community

Your commitment helps fund CAPSA’s life-saving programs: from emergency shelter for families escaping abuse, to counseling, advocacy, and prevention education that breaks the cycle of violence. Every contribution helps provide safety and hope to someone in need right here in Northern Utah and Southeast Idaho.

3. Show Your Colors

Purple is the color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It’s a symbol of courage, survival, and peace. By displaying purple ribbons or signage in your business, you help raise awareness and encourage others to join the cause. When your customers see purple, they’ll know your business stands for safety and compassion.

A Powerful Way to Give Back

Businesses that take the Purple Promise are invited to contribute $1,000 (or more) as a Purple Promise Partner. This partnership directly funds CAPSA’s critical services and programs, ensuring that survivors in our community have the support they need to heal and rebuild.

Your generous contribution provides:

  • Emergency Shelter – Safe, confidential shelter for individuals and families escaping danger.

  • Counseling and Advocacy Services – Professional support that helps survivors navigate their healing journey.

  • Clinical Therapy and Support Groups – CAPSA clinical therapists are trauma-informed experts in treating anxiety, depression, and other disorders associated with abuse. CAPSA offers free and confidential clinical therapy and support groups for adults, teens, and children.

  • Prevention Education – School and community programs that teach healthy relationship skills and prevent future violence.

Every dollar makes a tangible difference in someone’s life. When your business joins the Purple Promise, you’re not just donating. You’re helping save lives.

Recognition for Purple Promise Partners

To thank our Purple Promise Partners for their compassion and leadership, CAPSA offers several forms of recognition throughout the month of October:

  • Website & Social Media Recognition – Your business will be featured on CAPSA’s website and social media channels during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, highlighting your commitment to ending abuse.

  • Purple Promise Window Decal & Digital Badge – Display your support proudly with a custom Purple Promise decal for your storefront and a digital badge to share online. These materials show your customers that you care about creating a safer community.

  • Optional Training – CAPSA staff can visit your business to provide an optional on-site presentation, offering education on recognizing signs of abuse, supporting survivors, and building a culture of safety. To schedule a training, please reach out to kara@capsa.org, and we’d be happy to coordinate those details.

By joining the Purple Promise, your business becomes part of a visible movement that encourages others to take action. Together, we can turn awareness into lasting change.

Why Your Support Matters

Domestic violence is more common than many realize, and it affects every community. Survivors often face overwhelming barriers when trying to escape abuse, from financial hardship to social stigma. CAPSA provides free, confidential support to help survivors find safety, healing, and hope.

When local businesses stand behind this mission, it sends a strong message that our community does not tolerate abuse and that survivors are supported, believed, and valued. Your participation in the Purple Promise helps sustain the programs that make this vision possible.

Make Your Purple Promise Today

This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, join CAPSA in making a difference. Become a Purple Promise Partner and take a stand against domestic violence. Your pledge represents compassion, leadership, and community strength.

Let’s work together to shine a light of hope and create a community free from violence.

 

Setting Boundaries: Master These 5 Tips for Healthy and Respectful Relationships

February marks Healthy Relationships Month, a time to reflect on the building blocks of strong, supportive, and respectful connections. At CAPSA, our Prevention Education department focuses on empowering individuals with tools and strategies to enhance relationships, and one of the most critical aspects we emphasize is setting boundaries.

Healthy boundaries are essential for maintaining balance, self-respect, and mutual understanding in any relationship. Boundaries define what you are comfortable with and communicate your needs and limits to others. When set and respected, they create a foundation for trust and growth, fostering healthier connections.

Here are five powerful tips to help you establish and maintain healthy boundaries.

1. Know Your Limits

The first step is understanding your personal limits. Take time to reflect on what makes you feel safe, respected, and valued. Think about past experiences and identify situations where you felt uncomfortable or taken advantage of.

Knowing yourself and your needs allows you to communicate clearly to others. For example, if you value personal time, you might establish a boundary of not answering work emails after a certain hour.

2. Communicate Clearly and Respectfully

Effective communication is vital when establishing boundaries. Use clear and respectful language to express your needs and limits. Remember, boundaries are about fostering understanding, not creating conflict.

For instance, you can say, “I feel overwhelmed when I’m interrupted during my work hours. Can we plan to discuss this after I’m done?” This approach makes your needs known while inviting collaboration.

CAPSA’s Prevention Education department offers valuable resources and training on communication, helping individuals communicate effectively in their relationships.

3. Be Consistent

Consistency is key. If you set a boundary, ensure you follow through with it. For example, if you’ve decided not to lend money to friends, it’s important to stand by that decision, even if pressured.

By staying consistent, you reinforce the importance of your limits and encourage others to respect them. Consistency also demonstrates that you take your own boundaries seriously, which makes others more likely to do the same.

4. Recognize and Respect Others’ Boundaries

Healthy relationships are a two-way street. Just as you set your own boundaries, it’s crucial to recognize and respect the boundaries of others. Pay attention to verbal and non-verbal cues and avoid overstepping.

If someone communicates a boundary to you, acknowledge it without judgment. For example, if a friend prefers not to discuss certain topics, respect their request and adjust your conversations accordingly.

5. Seek Support When Needed

Sometimes, setting boundaries can be challenging, especially in relationships where patterns of behavior have been established. If you encounter resistance or struggle to assert your needs, don’t hesitate to seek support.

CAPSA provides a safe space for individuals to explore these challenges and learn practical strategies. Whether through workshops, one-on-one support, or community education, we’re here to help.

Why Boundaries Matter During Healthy Relationships Month

Healthy Relationships Month is an opportunity to prioritize connection, respect, and mutual growth. Setting boundaries is a vital aspect of this process. It can help protect your emotional well-being, ensure relationships are built on respect, and empower you to thrive as an individual.

CAPSA’s Prevention Education department specializes in teaching these principles throughout February and beyond. By promoting healthy boundaries, we aim to create a community where individuals feel valued, supported, and free to be themselves.

Take the First Step

If you’re ready to strengthen your relationships, reach out to CAPSA. Together, we can build a future where respect and understanding thrive.

Setting boundaries is a skill, but it’s one that can transform your relationships and enhance your life. Start practicing today, and watch as your connections grow stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling.

5 Simple Ways to Support CAPSA this Year

At CAPSA, we know it takes community support to create lasting change. Every action, no matter how small it may seem, contributes to our mission of providing hope, healing, and safety for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Whether you have five minutes, five hours, or five dollars to give, your support can make a meaningful impact. Here are some small but powerful ways you can assist CAPSA in our mission.

Donate

Your financial support helps us provide life-saving services to survivors, including emergency shelter, therapy, legal advocacy, and more. Whether it’s a one-time gift or a recurring donation, every dollar counts. Consider setting up a monthly donation—even small amounts add up to significant support over time. When you contribute financially, you’re directly impacting the lives of individuals and families who rely on CAPSA for safety and healing. To learn more about donating, visit CAPSA.org/donate.

Volunteer

Volunteers are the heart of CAPSA. From assisting with events to helping maintain our facilities, there are countless ways to give your time and talents. Volunteering doesn’t just support our operations—it also strengthens community connections and allows individuals to play an active role in creating change. You can help by organizing donations, participating in community outreach, or providing administrative support. Even a few hours can make a big difference. Reach out to learn about current volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule and interests. To learn more about volunteering, visit CAPSA.org/get-involved/volunteer.

Educate Yourself

Understanding the realities of domestic and sexual violence in our community is an essential step in creating change. When you educate yourself, you become empowered to recognize signs of abuse and take meaningful action. Visit our website, read survivor stories, or attend one of our educational trainings to deepen your knowledge and awareness. These insights equip you to be a stronger ally and advocate for survivors.

  • Attend a CAPSA Training or Event: Join us for a training session, fundraiser, or awareness event. These gatherings not only support our mission financially but also spread awareness and build a stronger, more connected community.
  • Be an Upstander: An Upstander is someone who actively intervenes or offers support when they witness harmful behavior or signs of abuse. This could mean checking in with someone you’re concerned about, safely intervening in a risky situation, or calling for help when needed. Small actions like these can make a world of difference for someone in danger.
  • Be a Safe Adult: A safe adult is someone who creates a trusting and supportive environment for children or individuals to share concerns without fear of judgment or reprisal. This might involve educating yourself about how to recognize signs of abuse or simply letting the people in your life know they can always come to you for help.

Spread the Word

Awareness is powerful. Share CAPSA’s mission and services on your social media platforms or talk to your friends, family, and coworkers about how they can support survivors. Word of mouth can help someone in need find the resources they’re looking for. A simple share on social media or a conversation over coffee could be the catalyst for someone to seek help or get involved.

Participate in a Fundraiser

Organize a fundraiser or participate in one of ours! Fundraisers are a fantastic way to bring the community together for a cause while raising essential funds for CAPSA. Whether it’s a bake sale, a community walk, or a workplace giving campaign, your efforts can amplify CAPSA’s reach and resources. These events also serve to strengthen community bonds and bring greater visibility to our mission.

Every Action Matters

No matter how small your action may seem, it contributes to a larger movement of support, hope, and healing. At CAPSA, we’ve seen firsthand how individual contributions—whether it’s time, money, or awareness—can transform lives and strengthen our community. Every kind gesture, every dollar donated, and every hour volunteered makes a difference.

Whether you’re able to give financially, volunteer your time, or simply share information about CAPSA, your support is invaluable. Thank you for being part of this critical work. Together, we can continue to make a big difference in the lives of survivors.

To get started, visit CAPSA.org or contact us directly to learn more about how you can help.

New Year, Same Life-Saving Services

As we step into a new year, the season of goal-setting and self-improvement is in full swing. Many of us are reflecting on where we’ve been, envisioning where we’d like to go, and planning the steps it will take to get there. At CAPSA, we want you to know that this spirit of renewal and growth aligns perfectly with our mission. Whether you’re seeking safety, healing, or a fresh start, CAPSA continues to provide life-saving services to support you every step of the way.

A Fresh Start for Survivors

For survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, the idea of new beginnings can feel daunting. Setting goals and working on personal growth may seem out of reach when you’re navigating difficult circumstances or healing from trauma. That’s why CAPSA’s life-saving services are designed to meet you where you are and help you build the future you envision—not just in January, but every day of the year.

Seeking support is not just an act of bravery; it’s a powerful declaration that you are ready to embrace the hope and healing you deserve. At CAPSA, we’re here to walk beside you through every step of your journey. Our comprehensive programs are designed to empower survivors, restore independence, and create lasting change.

Services We Offer

At CAPSA, our services are centered around providing hope, choice, freedom, and independence. Here’s how we can support you:

  • Emergency Shelter: If you need immediate safety, our emergency shelter offers a secure and welcoming space. You deserve to feel safe and supported.
  • 24/7 Crisis Hotline: Our confidential hotline is available around the clock to offer guidance, support, or just a listening ear. You can reach us any time at (435) 753-2500.
  • Therapy and Counseling: Healing is a journey, and our licensed therapists specialize in helping survivors process trauma and rebuild their lives.
  • Case Management: Our caseworkers work with you to create personalized plans, connecting you with resources for housing, employment, and education.
  • Support Groups: Sharing your experiences with others who understand can be incredibly empowering. Our support groups foster community and healing.
  • Legal Advocacy: Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming. Our advocates are here to guide you through protective orders, custody arrangements, and other legal needs.
  • Transitional Housing: For those ready to take the next step toward independence, our transitional housing program provides stable, affordable housing.
  • Prevention and Education: CAPSA also works within the community to prevent violence through education and awareness programs, helping create a safer future for all.

New Year, New Opportunities

The start of a new year is an opportunity to reclaim your voice, set boundaries, and embrace the life you deserve. At CAPSA, we believe in your resilience and strength. Whether you’re reaching out for the first time or continuing on your journey with us, we’re here to provide the tools, resources, and support you need to achieve your goals.

Self-improvement doesn’t have to mean monumental changes overnight. Small steps, like calling our hotline, attending a support group, or setting up a meeting with a caseworker, can be transformative. Each step you take toward healing and growth is an act of courage and self-love.

Partnering with the Community

CAPSA’s work would not be possible without the support of our community. From financial contributions to volunteer efforts, your involvement helps us provide life-saving services to those who need them most. Together, we can create a world where survivors feel empowered to start anew.

This year, consider how you might support CAPSA’s mission. Share our resources with someone who might need them, volunteer your time, or donate to help sustain our programs. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a larger movement of hope and healing.

You Are Not Alone

As we embrace the possibilities of a new year, CAPSA reaffirms our commitment to being a lifeline for survivors. You are not alone, and help is always available. Together, we can turn the page and write a new chapter—one of safety, empowerment, and hope.

If you or someone you know needs support, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Your journey is important, and we are honored to walk it with you. Visit CAPSA.org to learn more about our services or to find ways to get involved.

You Matter: A Message for Survivors

As we enter the month of October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we at CAPSA want to remind you: you are not alone, and you matter. Whether you’ve experienced domestic violence or any form of abuse, know that we are here to support you because your safety, healing, and future are important to us.

You deserve to live in safety. You deserve to heal. No matter where you are on your path—whether you’ve just started reaching out for help or you’ve been working through your trauma for years—our team is here to stand by you. At CAPSA, you matter.

We see you. Your experiences, your pain, and your resilience matter. Your life, your story, and your future matter to us. There is nothing more important than making sure you feel supported, understood, and safe as you move toward healing.

You are worthy of safety, love, and respect. You matter. If you feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or lost, know that CAPSA is here because you deserve support. We are committed to standing with you, no matter what you’ve faced or are currently going through.

Healing can be a difficult journey, but you don’t have to take it alone. CAPSA is here for you because you matter. Every person who walks through our doors is valued, and we are ready to provide the resources, care, and community you need.

If you ever doubt your worth, remember this: you deserve safety and support because you matter. Your story is important. Your life is valuable. And at CAPSA, we will continue to be here for you, every step of the way.

You matter. And we are here for you.

Empowering Independence: CAPSA’s Commitment to Survivors

Empowering Independence

In the month of July, many celebrate Independence. For survivors of domestic and sexual violence, independence and freedom have often been taken or compromised. At CAPSA, our focus is on empowering individuals toward independence. This begins with the belief that survivors understand their situations and circumstances better than anyone else. We start by believing a survivor’s experience and presenting them with resources and options. We recognize the many reasons why people may choose to stay in a relationship—finances, love, dependence, or worry for children, to name a few. Understanding the complexity of abuse, and that it takes an average of seven attempts to leave, we prioritize action planning and safety planning.

Emergency Shelter

For their safety, individuals sometimes choose to access our emergency shelter. At CAPSA, our shelter is designed to promote independence. Survivors prepare their own meals, help keep the spaces tidy, and work with a caseworker to take the next steps. We acknowledge that shelter living is not a long-term solution. Therefore, CAPSA has developed a transitional housing program that offers individuals and families a longer-term option. In CAPSA’s housing program, individuals receive financial support for a time while they establish employment, childcare, a budget, and other essential tools. As individuals gain access to resources, we encourage independence so that when they move on from this program, they can live independently.

Transitional Housing

A key part of the transitional housing program is the twenty-one homes that CAPSA owns, situated in two neighborhoods named Independence Place and Independence Way. Independence Place represents a safe environment where survivors can find stability and support as they transition from crisis to confidence. Each resident is provided with the tools and resources needed to heal and grow, including counseling, education, and advocacy for themselves and their children. Our goal is to empower individuals to make their own choices and build lives that reflect their aspirations and dreams.

The name “Independence Place” is a deliberate and powerful choice, reflecting the essence of what we strive to achieve at CAPSA.

Here to Help

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of those who seek our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm response, information and support, advocacy, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA.