Talk on VAWA and U Visa

On October 13, Susan Kolb gave an hour long presentation on VAWA and the U Visa available to victims of domestic violence and crimes.  The staff of Chihuahua Medical Associates participated in a training on domestic violence and its effects on undocumented victims.  These special immigration visas have given hope to many victims who fear taking action to protect themselves.  Health care workers are particularly well placed to identify victims and give them the support and referrals they need to escape abuse.

retreat

A day of retreat (10:00 -2:00)  was hosted at Nieves de la Rosa house in Bisbee on Saturday, Oct.24. 
The theme was "Rediscover the Simple Life"  and included time for sharing, reflecting, prayer, creative activity, lunch and conversation.  Nine women from the area participated.  Marilyn led the group in reflecting on seven themes that  nourish a spiritual attitude  to soften and nurture our souls. Where we are and who we are is holy ground.  In the afternoon, Mary Rose invited each and all to create a mandala expressing one or all of the themes.  More retreats will be planned for next January. 
For more information on the seven themes  see Everyday Simplicity:  A Practical Guide to Spiritual Growth   by Robert Wicks. 

home visitors conference

On Thursday, October 22, Mary Rose and Marilyn attended a Conference for home visitors in Sierra Vista.  “Building Strong Connections”  brought together care givers and supervisors of Cochise County for a  “ nurturing of the nurturer .”   As presenters for two of the six breakout sessions   Marilyn introduced Tai Chi movements for energy balancing and bodily health and Mary Rose led a group in creating mandalas for stress reduction.    Both sessions were fun, energizing and well received.  We were impressed and inspired by the keynote speakers and the overall positive energy of the day.  Good connections were made for future collaboration.