My Sister's House holds fundraiser for awareness

My Sister's House, an organization for the relief of domestic violence against women, is holding a fundraising event this weekend on Goldbug Island.

Founded in 1980, the organization started as a crisis hotline and has gradually grown to include other programs, such as an emergency shelter, public speakers and support groups.

"We work with victims to help them find housing, jobs and other sources of help," says Sarah Baird, the event's coordinator. "Domestic violence is not a problem for one social class or one economic class of women. These women could be your sisters or my sisters. We see women of every status in our programs."

The name of the event is "Do Ask, Do Tell, Do Something." Its purposes are to raise general awareness about domestic violence and to educate the Lowcountry about programs it sponsors.

The fundraiser will take place on Goldbug Island, off Ben Sawyer Boulevard on the way to Sullivan's Island. Since its beginnings, My Sister's House has held an annual fundraiser in October, Domestic Violence Awareness month.

"This is the major event for domestic violence," says Baird. "We love to see the community's support, especially in South Carolina, where the rate of domestic violence is unusually high. It's a cause that everyone can get involved with. And we're really glad to have Goldbug Island as our event site. I think it will be a great place to have it."

It's free to attend the fundraiser, but dinner tickets are available for $12. The ticket includes a barbecue dinner and a dessert, and the money goes directly to programs for My Sister's House.

There will be music by two local bands: Rik Crib and the Problems as well as The Most Interesting Band in the World, a compilation of local musicians.

The event also will feature a silent auction, with items donated from local merchants.

"We've had a lot of support from local businesses in this community," says Baird.

"We've held a silent auction at the event for several years in a row, and we've always had outstanding participation."

Other donated items will be given away as door prizes. "Everyone who comes in will be given a piece of paper with a domestic violence statistic on it," explains Baird. "Later, we'll hold a raffle, and if we read your statistic out loud, then you'll win the item."

Also, educational exhibits will be on display about domestic violence.

"We want the Lowcountry to know who we are and what services we provide," says Baird. "The event is for people who need help themselves or for people who know someone who needs help. We need to raise awareness about the prevalence of violence in the community."

If you go

What: Do Ask, Do Tell, and Do Something!' Domestic Violence Awareness event My Sister's House

When: 6-9 p.m. Friday

Where: Goldbug Island, Mount Pleasant

Contact: hope@mysistershouse.com or call 744-3242

Tickets: Tickets include BBQ dinner, drink, and dessert. $12 in advance, $15 at the door and $10 for children

Web site: www.mysistershouse.org