Domestic Violence Support Group

With domestic violence numbers on the rise across the United States, many state and local government agencies are taking to their communities to educate, provide resources, and offer support to survivors. Small towns all across the country, including The Mt. Hood Villages, are reaching out to community members in show of support to those who have suffered at the hands of domestic violence.

The Hoodland Bazaar, in partnership with Clackamas County Women’s Services, has been offering workshops geared towards offering support and guidance for members of the community who have experienced domestic violence. Community member and Hoodland Bazaar Event Manager, Christen Prudence, has been taking charge of the cause and organizing these events for members of The Mt. Hood Villages. Hosting their first “Support Your Neighbor Workshop” in October of 2025, Prudence explains that this isn’t just a way of spreading community outreach, but also a way to honor those who fell victim to domestic violence. 

“These events were created in response to the tragic murder of our dear Phoenix the year prior,” Prudence said. “We felt a strong call to provide support for our community — both for those currently experiencing abuse and for those who may not be personally affected but want to learn how to recognize warning signs, be allies, and offer meaningful help. Our goal was to create a safe, compassionate space for healing, learning, and connection,” Prudence added.

According to The Oregon Health and Science University, domestic violence, although widely the most private of all incidents within the home, is very common. One in four women will experience intimate partner violence in their lifetime, with one in five Oregonians losing their lives each year to domestic violence. 

With statistics on the rise and small towns such as The Mt. Hood Villages experiencing first hand the devastation and reality of domestic violence with the murder of Susan Lane in 2024, The Hoodland Bazaar and Clackamas County Women’s Services are now hosting workshops quarterly with the next event scheduled in April. “Each session begins and ends with a grounding meditation, creating a sense of safety and calm,” Prudence said. “The workshops include open discussion around recognizing warning signs of abuse, how to approach someone you may be concerned about, and what local resources and support options are available,” Prudence added.

Although the population of The Mt. Hood Villages may not compare to those of larger cities and communities, the number of domestic violence survivors is still problematic and a cause for concern. While the number of participants at each event can vary, the turnout is still substantial. Prudence explains that while the tragic loss of Susan Lane [Phoenix] has been the turning point in organizing and hosting these events, the overall magnitude is reason enough. “Domestic violence often happens in silence, surrounded by shame and stigma, even though it is never the victim’s fault,” Prudence said. “These events exist to remind people that they are not alone and that help and support are available.

This group of community members and county officials is a local and comfortable way for survivors to obtain the support and resources needed in a safe environment. And while this group primarily meets to give a voice to those in need, it is also an opportunity for friends and family members of potential victims to learn the signs and the red flags associated with domestic violence. “Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for those navigating abusive situations, offer hope through shared experiences from survivors who have found their way through, and educate the broader community on warning signs and ways to support neighbors in crisis,” Prudence said.

The next Clackamas Women’s Services Workshop with Support Your Neighbor will be held April 7th, 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at The Hoodland Bazaar in the Phoenix Room. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please call The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or visit https://calltosafety.org.