SafeSpace Invites the Treasure Coast to Move from Awareness to Action this October
Posted on October 8, 2026
STUART, Fla. — Domestic violence can touch the lives of people we see every day: a co-worker, a friend, a neighbor. Knowing how to recognize it and where to find help can make a difference. This October, SafeSpace is inviting the Treasure Coast to put that awareness into action.
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, SafeSpace’s “Safety. Solidarity. Solutions.” campaign will connect residents and professionals with resources, learning opportunities and ways to support survivors across Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties.
“No single agency or profession can address domestic violence alone,” said Jennifer Fox, MSW, MBA, Chief Executive Officer of SafeSpace. “Every interaction with a survivor matters. We want to give professionals the knowledge and tools to recognize warning signs, understand what a survivor may be experiencing, and respond in a way that helps move that person toward safety.”
A central part of the campaign is the Domestic Violence Summit on Tuesday, Oct. 13, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the MIDFLORIDA Event Center in Port St. Lucie. Hosted by SafeSpace in collaboration with the Circuit 19 Domestic Violence Task Force and The Gabby Petito Foundation, the Summit will bring together professionals who work with survivors to strengthen their response to domestic violence.
Featured presenter Jim Schmidt, a board member of The Gabby Petito Foundation and former first responder, will lead several sessions. Specialized training tracks will focus on first response and law enforcement, healthcare and mental health, and advocacy and child welfare. Registration is $125 and includes meals and refreshments, materials, practical resources and a certificate of participation. Visit SafeSpaceFL.org/events to register.
Sponsors include the Wong Family Foundation as Presenting Sponsor; Jan and Jessica Malasek, Inspired Closets, and Tykes & Teens as Community Partner Sponsors; the Gabby Petito Foundation and Coral Shores Behavioral Health as Impact Sponsors; and John Schmahl, House of Hope, Thompson's Remodeling & Home Repair, and iTHINK Financial as Supporting Sponsors.
On Thursday, Oct. 22, SafeSpace will invite businesses, community organizations and residents to participate in Wear Purple Day. Participants can share photos using #AwarenessToAction and help others find support by including SafeSpace’s hotline and website.
Throughout October, SafeSpace will share information about its services, warning signs of abuse and practical ways to stand with survivors. Community members can also make a gift to help sustain services throughout the year.
For resources and ways to get involved, visit SafeSpaceFL.org. Anyone experiencing domestic violence, or concerned about someone who may be, can call SafeSpace’s 24/7 hotline at 772-288-7023.
About SafeSpace
SafeSpace is the Treasure Coast’s only state-certified domestic violence center, serving survivors and their children 24/7. Since its founding, SafeSpace has provided more than 500,000 safe nights of shelter to over 40,000 victims and children. Its comprehensive programs include shelter, legal advocacy, financial literacy, counseling, prevention education, and specialized children’s services.