(WHITE TWP., NJ – October 8, 2025) - Domestic violence can affect anyone regardless of age, race, background or circumstance, leading the Warren County Board of County Commissioners to declare October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and to highlight the mission of the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center of Warren County.

“We are very fortunate to have a strong group such as DASACC looking out for our small community in Warren County,” noted Commissioner Director Jason J. Sarnoski.

This annual proclamation emphasizes the 1991 New Jersey Legislature findings that declared domestic violence a serious crime against society, urging residents to work together to raise awareness and support those who have been victimized.  

Survivors of domestic violence may face physical harm, emotional trauma, and significant challenges in accessing safety, support, and services.

With a mission to help, serve, and advocate for those impacted by interpersonal violence; to be proactive regarding its prevention; and to create positive change, Isela Arras, Executive Director of DASACC noted that since the beginning of 2025, more than 1,900 people have been helped through their services. “We’re ensuring no one goes through domestic violence alone,” Arras added.

“You all do an amazing job of being there for everyone in the community, acting as the backbone for domestic violence awareness and support,” said County Commissioner Lori Ciesla.

Programs such as Abuse Intervention can prevent future violence and support long-term community safety and healing by increasing a participant’s ability to understand and identify abusive behaviors, the impact of abuse on others, and reduce abusive behaviors for the future. 

Domestic violence will not be eliminated without a concerted effort amongst the community at large, ensuring everyone is free from violence and can feel safe in their own home.

DASACC will be hosting its annual Night at the Races fundraiser on November 14 at the Alpha Fire Department. This event features lively horse races, a chance to place bets, win one of over 30 prizes and enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet, snack bar and beverages. Proceeds will be devoted to the critical funds used for supporting those in domestic violence situations.

To learn more, visit DASACC's website: www.dasacc.org

From l-r: Quiomarie Munoz, Ruth Velarde, Amanda Keenan, Abigail Koller Koceniak, Commissioner Director Jason J. Sarnoski, Isela Arras, Commissioner James R. Kern III, Dean Hickey, Sonia Ron, Commissioner Lori Ciesla and Penelope Griffin.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

OCTOBER 2025

WHEREAS, in 1991, the New Jersey Legislature found and declared that domestic violence is a serious crime against society; and

WHEREAS, domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, identity, or circumstance; and

WHEREAS, survivors of domestic violence may face physical harm, emotional trauma, and significant challenges in accessing safety, support, and services; and

WHEREAS, everyone should be free from violence; and

WHEREAS, no one should feel unsafe in their own home; and

WHEREAS, investing in Warren County families through programs such as Abuse Intervention services helps prevent future violence and supports long-term community safety and healing; and

WHEREAS, domestic violence will not be eliminated without a concerted effort amongst the community at large.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Warren County Board of County Commissioners in conjunction with the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center of Warren County hereby proclaims the month of October 2025 as DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH and urge residents to work together to raise awareness of this important issue and support those who have been victimized.