One in four women in the U.S. will become a victim of abuse in her life, with teens and young women being particularly vulnerable. It's an epidemic that's widely felt but rarely discussed something we seek to change with the Speak Out Against Domestic Violence initiative. Through education and funding, we're building awareness. We're also helping direct service programs break the cycle of partner violence and prevent abuse before it ever starts.

Speak Out Against Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pattern of abuse with the goal of establishing or maintaining power and control over the victim. It can happen occasionally or continuously and often worsens over time. Domestic violence includes physical, sexual, mental, and financial abuse. It knows no boundaries: Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of income, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religion.
To help bring this issue out of the shadows, the Avon Foundation for Women launched Speak Out Against Domestic Violence, an initiative to build awareness, educate, and improve prevention and direct service programs. Through the end of 2011, in the U.S. alone, we have provided more than $28 million for the domestic violence cause.