According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), South Dakota alone in 2004 had over 6,700 reports of domestic violence from female victims. The website for NCADV (http://www.ncadv.org/resources/Statistics_170.html) also claims in 2004 that 2,102 arrests were made for domestic assault in South Dakota. Additionally, as of July 1, 2005 15% of South Dakota’s inmates were imprisoned for sex offenses and in the same year South Dakota reported 362 forcible rapes.

These uncomforting statistics show the need for services to victims. In South Dakota there are approximately 43 shelters and support groups. These shelters and organizations would all benefit from help and donations, especially around the holiday seasons.

Chi Sigma Iota (CSI) is an honor society for graduate school student counselors, counselor educators, and professional counselors. This year, SDSU’s chapter of CSI is organizing a drive for donations to the Domestic Violence Shelter in Brookings. Boxes can be located in residence hall lobbies. There will be informational signs in halls listing suggested items and bins for students to place donated items in each hall lobby. Ideas of items to donate include office supplies, shelter materials, as well as food and clothing items. Your generosity will benefit many families and service providers this season. CSI members, victims of domestic violence and shelter staff thank you for your kindness and charity.

Emily Noem SDSU Graduate Student Chi Sigma Iota Events Programmer