BY SARAH STEPHENS
ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS
A huge show of support was seen Thursday, June 4, as an official ribbon cutting was held for the But God Battered Women Support Group in Millbrook.
Area residents, city officials, the Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce, family and friends came to rally behind founder Charlene Davis.
The Support Group location is 2496 Main Street in Millbrook. The telephone number is 833-263-5395. Director/Founder Charlene Davis can be reached through email at [email protected].
The organization aims to provide a safe and supportive group environment for battered women. The focus is helping women heal from emotional, physical and mental abuse. They will also offer opportunities to build self-esteem, create new friendships, enhance protective skills, identify and explore feelings and ideas of safety.
Davis says, most importantly the organization will help women enrich their lives through job building skills and teaching them financial literacy.
Davis addressed the crowd, calling on all women to know their worth. She said that escape from an abusive relationship is possible with strong support, the kind of support she plans to make available to victims.
The programs will include:
One on One Consultation, Weekly Group Support, Enrichment Referrals, Crisis Hotline, Safety Planning, Emergency Transportation, Emergency Shelter, Employment Assistance.
Those in attendance Thursday were given a brochure about the organization and a purple ribbon honoring victims of domestic violence.
Davis thanked God first, for His role in her life, the lessons she has learned and wisdom she has gained. As a previous victim herself of domestic violence, Davis said she wants to share the wisdom she has gained through her own experiences, and reach out to those in need in the Millbrook and surrounding communities.
She called her family, including her seven children, up for the ribbon cutting, many of which are taking an active part in helping her with the endeavor.
Millbrook Mayor Al Kelley was also invited to help cut the ribbon for the opening of the facility.
“I have known Charlene a long time, and I am very thankful that this organization will be located here in Millbrook,” Kelley said. “Charlene and I talked recently, hugged and cried through it, and I truly am so proud of her for establishing this agency.”
Davis also thanked Millbrook Police Chief P.K. Johnson for leading the department, and all that his officers do for the community.
Following the ribbon cutting, the large crowd was invited inside to look around and enjoy refreshments.
See photo gallery below.
Joyce Davis said everyone who supports the new Battered Women’s Support Group should put their money where their mouth is. She donated $100. Others also stepped forward and promised to show financial support. 
Charlene Davis poses with Mayor Al Kelley, at left, and Police Chief P.K. Johnson at right. 
