Candle Light Vigil 2010

First Step is hosting it's 8th annual Candle Light Vigil " A Night of Remembrance and Hope." Our vigil is held once a year during the month of October to spread awareness and to shed light on the prevalence of domestic violence in our community.The vigil is an evening of music, poetry and reflection to honor those who have died and those who continue to struggle as survivors of domestic violence. The event will be held at the Holiday Inn at the Falls, 100 Central Freeway Wichita Falls Texas 76306 on October 28, 2010 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm.

"Rock Against Violence" Encore

First Step will have a encore to "Rock Against Violence" on Saturday September 4th from 10am to 3pm. It will be held at the Big Lots parking lot 3923 Kell Blvd. Admission is free but come out and buy good food for a reasonable price. All the proceeds go to support First Step. We will have fun for kids and live music from local bands.

Rock Against Violence

First Step is breaking into the community with an explosive holiday fundraiser on July 3, 2010.Working together with Big Lots Stores, First Step will be selling hot dogs, hamburgers, sausage on a stick, corn on the cob, chips and drinks donated by Big Lots Stores, Sam's Club, United Supermarkets, Wal-Mart and First Bank. For entertainment there will be live bands, individual performers and the Maskat Shriners will provide entertainment for children. All of proceeds will go to First Step.Your purchase of $5.00 will feed a child or adult in crisis for an entire week. With the help of the community,First Step will continue to spread her wings and nurture those in need.

Carolyn Thomas

This is a story of a incredible lady who survived at the hands of violence:

My name is Carolyn Thomas and this is my story.
I was born in Midland, Texas, on July 26, 1970. Raised by my grandmother and mother. I grew up in a strong, faith environment and attended church on a regular basis. During high school I participated and excelled in track and drama.

I grew up carefree and enjoyed spending time with my friends and mom. After graduation from Midland High School, I moved to Waco, Texas. I attended a local community college. I later decided to explore the workforce in Waco and worked various jobs.

In 1995, I met the man who would change my life forever. Throughout our eight year relationship, I was caged from the outside world. I experienced helplessness, powerlessness, isolation, control, manipulations, fear, intimidation, and loss of self by an abusive partner on various levels. The abusive relationship progressed to a lethal plateau over time.

On December 5, 2003, I suffered catastrophic facial injuries when my abuser shot me at point-blank range. I was not expected to live. By God's hand I survived. I had 11 reconstructive surgeries at Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas over a two year period. While recovering I discovered my purpose, to tell my story to all willing to listen.

March Fundraiser

First Step will be out at Sonic on Kemp Blvd on Saturday March 20, 2010 from 8 to 5. We will be taking financial donations from customers to raise money for vicitims of domestic violence and sexual assault. We would love for the community to come out and support First Step, as we take another step to have a community that is free from violence.

November Fundraiser

First Step is beginning it's November Fundraiser, we will be selling homemade pies. We will be selling cherry,chocolate,pumpkin,apple,pecan and pumpkin rolls.You have to pay for the pies in advance and pick them up at our First Step Family Store located at 911 Indiana Wichita Falls, Texas. The pies will be ready Nov.23 till Nov.25 from 9a.m.to 4p.m.If you are interested or have any questions please contact our office at 940-723-7799.