Grand Jury City of Santa Cruz City Manager Response Lisa Murphy Mon, Sep 16, 2024 at 4:40 Pm

The City Manager’s Weekly Update to the community has not highlighted the work of the CPVAW for the past two years, effectively relegating the prevention of rape and domestic violence to a low priority, leaving the public uninformed. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): There is no evidence to suggest that the absence of CPVAW activities in the City Manager’s Weekly Updates has left the public uninformed or perceived as a low priority. The Weekly Update is a communication tool that shares relevant city activities and projects, drawing information from City Departments and highlighting key city council actions and significant projects. The Commission is encouraged to submit updates about its work to the City Manager’s office for inclusion. The Commission focuses on partnering with community-based organizations that specialize in supporting victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. In 2024, the Commission provided funding to local non-profits, including $2,000 to the Walnut Avenue Women’s Center, which offers direct services to survivors, and $8,000 to Monarch Services, which provides crisis response for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. These organizations have a broader reach than the City Manager’s Weekly Update, effectively disseminating more information to the public. Furthermore, the Commission has significantly increased its community presence by participating in events such as co-sponsoring the "Stronger Together" Fun Run/5K with Monarch Services in September 2023 and 2024, marching in the Dyke March and the 2024 Pride Parade, and taking part in the 2024 March to End Homelessness and the She is Beautiful race. These events enhance awareness and provide crucial information on preventing rape and domestic violence. Additionally, the Commission has launched a dedicated newsletter to highlight its events and activities, allocating funds for two publications in FY25. It also uses social media platforms to promote and inform the community about CPVAW initiatives.