County Attorney Press Releases

Survivors Of Domestic Violence To Receive “Cycle For Change” Scholarships In A Special Ceremony

On Friday, January 9, 2015, at 2 p.m., El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal and Villa Maria shelter director Linda Velarde will award nine El Paso residents “Cycle for Change” scholarships corresponding to the spring 2015 semester. The event will take place at the Villa Maria shelter, 920 S. Oregon.

All the scholarship recipients are survivors of domestic violence who are fighting to overcome obstacles to succeed in life. The funds can be used in the pursuit of any endeavor - academic, therapeutic or otherwise - that is focused on raising the survivor’s self-esteem and taking her beyond breaking the cycle of domestic violence, to thriving as a survivor of the social disease.

The funding for the scholarships comes from the annual cycling event titled Cycle for Change: From Surviving to Thriving,” held on October 26, 2014, at Gallegos Park. More than 200 cyclists from the region participated in last year’s edition of the event.

“We’re very thrilled to be able to help victims of domestic violence not only during the crisis phase -handling their protective orders, but also providing them resources to succeed in life outside the abusive relationship,” said El Paso County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal

The scholarship program is open to any primary survivor of an intimate partner, domestic violence relationship who resides in El Paso County, regardless of their legal status in this country.

All inquiries may be directed to the El Paso County Attorney’s Office at (915) 546-2153.

WHO: County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal, Villa Maria Director Linda Velarde and survivors of domestic violence

WHAT: “Cycle for Change” Scholarship Awards Ceremony

WHEN: Friday January 9, 2015, at 2:00 p.m.

WHERE: Villa Maria Shelter, 920 S. Oregon

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2015 Cycle for Change Scholarship Program Press Release.pdf