A local nonprofit serving survivors of domestic and sexual violence is aiming to turn out even more golfers on the links of Ludlow, as the Olympic Peninsula Chapter of the Boeing Bluebills prepare to conduct the eighth annual Dove House Golf Benefit at Port Ludlow.

The event’s previous two years have seen the Port Ludlow Golf Course draw 96 players each time, but when the benefit tees off with a shotgun start at noon on Aug. 23 of this year, organizers hope to have 120 players on hand to help support Dove House Advocacy Services in Port Townsend, which is the only crime-victim service center in Jefferson County.

“But people usually get there around 10:30 a.m. to register and buy raffle tickets, mulligans and other aids to enhance their scores,” said Barbara Berthiaume, who chairs the Olympic Peninsula Chapter of the Boeing Bluebills, and also co-chairs the annual Dove House Golf Benefit with chapter vice chair Myron Vogt. “And then we have a dinner at the Bay Club following the tournament, to award the raffle prizes and announce the golf winners.”

Berthiaume reported this year’s charity golf tournament has enlisted eight major sponsors, 33 tee sponsors and 25 volunteers whom she credited with spending “many hours” to make it “such a successful and fun event,” in addition to the assortment of companies, organizations and individuals who donated “amazing” raffle baskets.

Berthiaume reported the previous seven years of Dove House Golf Benefits have raised around $100,000 for the local nonprofit, with more than $20,000 that went to direct services for Dove House clients last year alone.

“All sponsorship money is sent to Dove House, and earmarked for direct client services,” Vogt said.

Berthiaume estimated the Bluebills tend to raise between $12,000 and $15,000 each year for Dove House, and described the golf tournament as “our major fundraiser” for the year.

HOW DOVE HOUSE HELPS

Beulah Kingsolver, executive director for Dove House Advocacy Services, explained her organization provides free and confidential crisis intervention, shelter and advocacy services for victims of domestic and sexual violence, as well as general crime.

During a trauma-informed interview training session with the Port Townsend Police Department, Kingsolver explained some of the nuances of those advocacy services, which can include advocates working with victims on safety planning, including orders of protection, if needed.

Kingsolver elaborated Dove House advocates are also available to accompany victims to police interviews and meetings with attorneys, as well as to help provide emotional support for the victims and their families.

“We often work with a victim for a year or longer, after the arrest,” Kingsolver said. “We often set up lawyers, and/or help with custody papers and divorces. If need be, they can come live in our shelter, and we support them in finding safe housing.”