As the executive director of Interval House, the prominent shelter and program for victims of domestic violence, Carol Williams sees many stories of hope amid the sadness that often accompanies the problem.
Much effort is made at Interval House to bring a sense of normalcy and even joy at times to the lives of the families that need its assistance. This season is one of those times.
“It is that glorious time of year when love is in the air – a time when we are surrounded with expressions of appreciation by those nearest and dearest to our hearts,” Williams said.
However, for many women and children, Valentine’s Day is a reminder of hearts broken by the devastation of domestic violence.
In 1979, when Interval House opened a little house on the hill in Seal Beach, it opened the doors to a movement and a cause that would shape a history rich with drama, perseverance, and inspiration… one that would spread beyond the seaside city, Orange and Los Angeles counties, and across the nation.
“The Interval House story is one of hope and love where, right here in our community, thousands have found safety, beauty and purpose,” said Williams, who has been with Interval House since its doors first opened 35 years ago this year, takes a moment to remind us of many beautiful and courageous women and children living in our shelters today who are in need of an expression of love on Valentine’s Day.
“We are so hopeful that this Valentine’s Day,” says Williams, “our dear Seal Beach community will open up their hearts once again to offer support for Interval House as they have done so generously over the past years. This year we are asking citizens to adopt a family in need, and/or to make a special donation in the name of a loved.”
Seal Beach residents may help to touch many lives this Valentine’s Day by adopting a family in need, and/or by making a special donation in the name of a loved one who will receive a grateful letter of acknowledgement from Interval House.
Williams emphasizes, “There are so many deserving families with darling children of all ages and backgrounds at Interval House, all with interesting and inspiring stories that would touch your heart.”
One such family is Elvia Duran and her three children. Duran underwent throat cancer surgery in December. She dreams of building a new life for her and her children. Her wish is to find and furnish an apartment near her children’s day care center in Long Beach, secure a job in the hotel/hospitality field, and to fulfill her daughters’ dreams of going to Disneyland.
Duran’s Interval House mentor vouches for Duran’s determination, saying: “She just loves to work, and with her experience, incredible work ethic, great attitude and warm presence, Elvia will be an outstanding asset to any of our local hotels.”
Donations to help Interval House residents may be sent directly to: Interval House, P.O. Box 3356, Seal Beach, CA 90740. Or, stop by the office at 6615 E. Pacific Coast Hwy, Suite 170, Long Beach 90803. To adopt a family or to make special arrangements, please call Carol Williams at (562) 594-9492, extension 222.
