Innovative Technology Keeping Survivors Safe

On May 25, 2024 a Milwaukee woman was shot near the corner of Cass and Kilbourn in an act of domestic violence. Staff members of the Woman’s Club of Wisconsin responded and attempted to assist her but she died at the scene. The man accused of shooting her was her husband. She died on her birthday.

Sojourner Family Peace Center is the largest non-profit provider of domestic violence prevention and intervention services in Wisconsin. Carmen Pitre, president and CEO of Sojourer, was contacted by several people who knew the victim prior to her death. She notes that “The tip of the iceberg are these homicides, but just below are thousands of cases that are on the verge of homicide.” 75 percent of the clients served at Sojourner are considered at high risk of lethal violence.

In early 2023, a device called Nightwatch made its debut in a pilot program with the Sojourner Family Peace Center and the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office.

he wearable device represents the first of its kind in victim and witness safety, using emergency response technology to protect those most vulnerable to ongoing and potentially lethal violence. The watch provides a discreet way for victims to notify law enforcement that they are in trouble, without alerting their abuser. The developer of this solution is Liz Kohler, founder and CEO of Nexion Solutions, whose sister was killed in a domestic violence-related homicide in 2007. Based on initial success with the pilot program, Sojourner is now hoping to protect more survivors by expanding access to the device through its agency.

In honor of our dedicated staff and in conjunction with Domestic Violence Awareness month, we welcome Carmen Pitre and Liz Kohler to provide us with an update on the state of domestic violence and an introduction to the Nightwatch device. You will learn about the current state of domestic violence, the development of the device, the partnership making it available, and, most importantly, the stories of women who were provided the device and survived.

Sojourner is currently actively fundraising and we will provide an opportunity for making donations for this purpose or for Sojourner in general. We are seeking participation from other women-centric organizations and advocacy groups. Please stay tuned as the program is developed.

Menu

Cilantro-Lime Steak Salad

Seared Flank Steak, Charred Corn, Avocado, Pepper-Tomato Pico de Gallo

Romaine and Arugula

Cilantro-Lime Dressing

Feta Cheese

Fried Tortilla Strips

Warm Rolls and Butter

Pot de Crème

Whipped Cream

Caramel Sauce

Host or Publisher Woman's Club of Wisconsin