A Gala to Remember

Last week, our team had the honor of attending the annual fundraising gala for Argrow’s House in Davenport. If you remember, Argrow’s House and Marsy’s Law for Iowa have been working hand-in-hand to pass a victims’ rights amendment in our state.

We were proud to be a sponsor and attend this lovely evening. It was fun, educational and eye-opening.

We heard from Christian Rainey, the Executive Director of M.A.D USA, Inc. (Men Against  Domestic Violence). He helped to illuminate how young boys and girls who grow up in homes where domestic violence occurs psychologically associate that domestic violence with love and think it’s healthy. His organization aims to combat that notion by educating high school students about what healthy relationships really look like.

We also met Bill Jenkins, author of What to Do When The Police Leave: a guide to the first days of traumatic loss. Bill’s 16-year-old son, William, was shot and killed as a part of an armed robbery at the local restaurant where he worked in 1997. Bill was able to help our team see the real-life struggles of crime victims when they are afforded no voice in the legal process. Bill was also an integral part of passing Marsy's Law in Illinois. 

One of the biggest highlights for the Marsy’s Law team was meeting some of the women who are employed, making soap and bath products, by Argrow’s House. The women each make $11 per hour and as employees of Argrow’s House, they’re given the means and support to leave their unsafe situation.

It was an incredible night that our team will not forget. The best news of all: Argrow’s House made a huge dent in paying off their $40,000 mortgage on their house! They are still collecting donations and soap sales to help fully pay it off. They make great corporate gifts or gift bag type gifts! Here is the link to the list of retailers who sell Argrow’s House soaps. Thank you for supporting this worthwhile cause.

Sarah Shambrook

Political Director

Marsy’s Law for Iowa