Jackson Free Press

JACKSON, MISS. – On Saturday, July 9, Jacksonians from all walks of life will unite to celebrate women and support the fight against domestic violence and at the seventh annual JFP Chick Ball.

"Domestic violence occurrences are on the rise in the Jackson metro area, as we are hearing almost daily about another woman or child whose life has been negatively impacted by it," says Sandy Middleton, Executive Director of the Center for Violence Prevention, a shelter and organization that provides the opportunity for victims of domestic violence to start a new life, free of violence and fear.

The JFP Chick Ball will be held at Hal and Mal's red room and will be replete with bling, female musical talent, a photo booth, games, great food, dancing, and a silent auction. All of the proceeds from the auction will assist in paying for programs to help victims and stop domestic abuse through the Center for Violence Prevention.

Admission to the event is $5 and sponsorships are available, ranging from $50 to $5,000. The Jackson Free Press has also issued the Chick Ball Challenge, where teams can compete to raise funds for the center. The winning team will receive bragging rights and a Chick Ball Challenge trophy. To register a team of 20 or less for the Chick Ball challenge, email [e-mail missing] the name of your team, contact person, and phone number.

"We started this event because I noticed there was no philanthropy geared toward younger people or those of lower income," says Donna Ladd, publisher of the Jackson Free Press. "Anyone should be able to give and to get involved."

To date, JFP Chick Ball proceeds have purchased a new minivan for the shelter and seeded Jackson's first abuser intervention program. Last year's event alone raised an astounding $20,000 toward legal fund services for victims. This year's goal is $30,000 to go toward the center's rural programs in Yazoo, Copiah, Claiborne, Sharkey, and Issaquena counties.

For more information on the JFP Chick Ball, visit jfpchickball.com.

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