Unique fundraiser draws awareness to domestic violence

    PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The generosity of a local businessman is bringing increased awareness to the issue of domestic violence and the help available through the Hope and Justice Project.
Steve Ouellette, president of Frank Martin and Sons, Inc. of Fort Kent, was the high bidder on a special putter during the TD Bank Golf Tournament, which raises scholarship funds for Northern Maine Community College.
The “traveling putter” is usually engraved with the name of the person who wins the bid, but this year’s winner asked that it be engraved in the name of the Hope and Justice Project and displayed at their office for the year.
“The Fort Kent area was shaken and saddened by the shooting death of Amy Theriault of St. Francis by her ex-fiancé this past summer,” said Ouellette. “I thought it was important to bring attention to this tragedy and to remind people that there is help available.”
“We are moved at Steve’s unselfish gesture and so pleased that he would recognize the Hope and Justice Project, especially during Domestic Violence Awareness Month,” said Francine Stark, executive director of the Hope and Justice Project. “We are thrilled to display this reminder of the many wonderful people in Aroostook County who care deeply about the safety of their neighbors and who support our work.”
Michael J. Kelley, regional vice president of TD Bank, was on hand for the presentation.
“TD Bank wishes to thank the Hope and Justice Project for the assistance offered to children and adults facing domestic violence, and many thanks to Steve Ouellette for participating in our golf tournament in this important way,” Kelley said. “This golf putter has taken on a life of its own, not only in helping to raise scholarship dollars for area students, but also representing people who have contributed to our community and now bringing attention to significant issues.”
Each year, the Hope and Justice Project takes a tally of the assistance they offer on Sept. 10, a day designated by the National Network to End Domestic Violence.
This year, the Hope and Justice Project assisted 54 individuals in the county on that day through shelters, the hotline service, legal assistance and more.