Community Voices with Saving Grace

Bend resident and First Interstate Vice President, Dawn Cofer, shares the story of her sister Cassi, who was murdered by her husband in October 2019. "We just carry on and I just think about who Cassi was and honor her every chance we get."

Music Credit: "Becoming My Own Home" by The Collection (used by permission)

Holly Harris, Program Manager with Deschutes County Health Services, lends her voice to discuss the intersection of the criminal justice system and behavioral health, as well as the new Stabilization Center.

Music Credit: "Becoming My Own Home" by The Collection (used by permission)

Saving Grace board members Aaron Brenneman (attorney) and Cheryl Parton (Magazine Editor) share -- with so many great nonprofits in Central Oregon -- why they joined our board. As parents and working professionals, they have seen the value of promoting a life and community without violence.

Music Credit: "Becoming My Own Home" by The Collection (used by permission)

Janice Garceau is a licensed clinical social worker with thirty years of experience as a behavioral health clinician in a variety of community settings. Janice has specific experience and expertise with forensic and court-mandated populations, community mental health, family and intimate partner violence, domestic relations mediation, and more.

We're joined by Justin Bendele, a Parole & Probation Officer Supervisor in Deschutes County, who shares his perspective on domestic violence and how to help offenders escape the revolving door of intimate partner violence. "I believe there are people who are good, who make bad decisions. We have an important role in protecting the public while holding clients accountable and trying to help them improve as people at the same time. It is one of the few jobs where you get to be on different sides of things."

Our Counseling Center Manager, Barb Lehman, shares her own survivor story, why she became a licensed therapist, as well as her heart for survivors. She provides a unique perspective we all need to hear: "For me...it started with a mountain."

Bend-based therapist, Tyler Vlodica, and Mary's Place Lead Facilitator, Christopher Yucho join to discuss abuse, how men can handle new stressors, and more.

Bend-based therapist, Tyler Vlodica, and Mary's Place Lead Facilitator, Christopher Yucho join to discuss abuse, how men can handle new stressors, and more.