When people help each other and support those who are in need or vulnerable, a community can become unbreakable. Long-time sponsor and advocate, Bank of the Pacific has partnered with DVSAS in Whatcom County to help further the organization’s mission.
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.”
Last year alone, DVSAS supplied their services to 1,217 clients, including adults and children, while completing 8,413 hours of supportive advocacy, according to George.

DVSAS Services
There are many comprehensive services at DVSAS, covering everything from safe housing to court support and more.
“For over 40 years, DVSAS has been accredited by the state and has provided critical support services to those impacted by these forms of violence,” George says. “Our services have continually expanded to meet the needs of our community.”
Main services include:
- Emergency Safe Housing: DVSAS provides safe housing for individuals at risk of becoming unhoused due to intimate partner violence.
- 24-Hour Helpline: a 24-hour helpline operates around the clock to offer immediate assistance to those in crisis.
- Medical Advocacy: DVSAS supports survivors during medical examinations and provides guidance on accessing healthcare services.
- Court Support: DVSAS’s advocates assist survivors in navigating the legal system, including attending court sessions.
- Case-Specific Systems Navigation: DVSAS offers tailored support to help survivors interact with various systems, such as law enforcement and social services.
- Support Groups: DVSAS facilitates groups where survivors can connect, share their experiences, and receive emotional support.
- Prevention Services: DVSAS is committed to preventing violence through educational programs and community outreach.
DVSAS is also dedicated to diversity and inclusion. “We provide assistance to individuals regardless of their income, gender, religion, or ethnicity,” says George. “DVSAS has advocates who speak Spanish or Russian (the two predominant non-English languages spoken in Whatcom County). Our facilities are equipped to accommodate survivors with children or pets who leave their abusive relationships.”

Bank of the Pacific
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.”
As Bank of the Pacific is an annual sponsor for the Tournament of Hope Golf Classic and the Hands for Hope Auction and Gala, Mathewson highlights the importance of patronizing the organization. “This is something that affects so many in our community, and to see what a difference DVSAS has made in so many lives is very powerful,” Mathewson says. “To be part of the organization as a board member and to talk about what we do is so meaningful.”
Mathewson hopes to bring even more awareness to the organization. “I do find it amazing as I’m talking to friends, colleagues, and acquaintances — how many have either heard of DVSAS or known someone that has used their services,” he says.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is domestic violence awareness month and DVSAS plans to help bring visibility to that fact by working with local businesses. “We’re partnering with The Pickford Film Center to co-present two films for October and we’re also hosting our annual Victory Over Violence celebration on October 23,” says George. “Follow us on Facebook or Instagram to stay up to date.”
Help Support DVSAS
One of the best ways to keep DVSAS a strong pillar in the community is engaging in public sponsorship and advocacy. “Of course, monetary donations help us provide services and support to survivors, but we also always need supplies for our shelter residents,” George says. “So often people come to us for emergency safe housing with nothing but the clothes on their back and no way of retrieving or replacing the items they left behind. Items like underwear, sports bras, leggings, and sweats are always useful. Even unlocked phones or gift cards for groceries or gas can be the difference between staying with an abusive partner or getting to safety.”
Join Bank of the Pacific and please consider helping this amazing local organization provide crucial assistance to those in need of their services.
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