DVSAS Brings Services and Support to the Vulnerable
Marjie George, Development Director at DVSAS, emphasizes their role in helping some of the most vulnerable groups in the community. “The mission of DVSAS is to support individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and sexual exploitation and to lead the community towards ending these abuses of power.”
DVSAS stands for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services, originally established as the Whatcom Crisis Center in 1970. “By the late ’70s [to] early ’80s, several other groups formed that were focused more narrowly on helping women who were experiencing intimate partner violence or sexual assault,” George says. “Eventually, these groups came together to become Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County.”
As a dedicated supporter of DVSAS, Bank of the Pacific recognizes the necessity of such a crucial organization in Whatcom.
“The Bank’s mission is to be the best bank for our employees, customers, investors and communities,” says Tom Mathewson, Vice President and Branch Manager. “One of our values is to demonstrate integrity, honesty, and respect for others. We care deeply about our communities, and for years have supported DVSAS and their mission to support those who suffer through domestic violence and sexual assault in Whatcom County.”
DVSAS is located at 1407 Commercial Street in downtown Bellingham. Photo courtesy DVSAS.