QUANADA housing advocate recognized by journalism group during author retreat in Quincy

QUINCY — For more than four decades, Quincy Area Network Against Domestic Abuse (QUANADA) of Quincy has provided the emotional, physical and crisis “comfort blanket” to all who have been assaulted or abused.

That healing process often begins by listening to the victim’s story. 

It seems fitting that at the annual author retreat, sponsored by Indies United Publishing in Quincy Saturday night, that the Inspirational Women in Literature Media and Journalism (IWLMJ) Awards recognized Astrid Render of QUANADA.

 “The most important work that QUANADA does is to believe survivors. From that foundation of belief, we provide safety, support, and the tools needed to rebuild a life after abuse,” said Render, a QUANADA housing advocate. “Our job is to meet survivors where they are, without judgment, and walk alongside them toward healing and empowerment. The work we do at QUANADA is about restoring hope and dignity — and ultimately, helping survivors reclaim their voice and power.”

Wilnona Marie, co-founder of the IWLMJ Awards, says the group wants to use the power of its pen to get the stories told. 

“Writing is a form of therapy,” Marie said. “We personally know the power of the written word toward the journey of healing.  We are familiar with the effects trauma has on a household. The author’s retreat gives everyone time to organize their thoughts around their personal trauma and express them in a creative manner.” 

Lisa Orban is the founder of Indies United Publishing in Quincy.  The weekend retreat has gathered authors from around the country.  She is happy her group is introduced to organizations like QUANADA.  

“Stories shape us, both as individuals and as a society,” Orban said. “More than any other group, authors craft the narratives that become woven into our collective consciousness. They give voice to our fears and dreams, ensuring that those who might otherwise remain unheard find a place in our shared dialogue. They illuminate our failures while inspiring us to reach for our better selves. They hold up a mirror, reflecting our common humanity and allowing us to feel truly seen.”

Unfortunately, the problem isn’t fading away.  

Women Helping Women reports that one in three college women say they’ve been in an abusive dating relationship, and 57% of college students who report experiencing dating violence and abuse said that it occurred during college.

“Statistics show that approximately 38% of domestic violence victims become homeless at some point in their lives, and more than 90% of homeless women have experienced severe physical or sexual abuse,” Render said.

“It’s often said the first step to fix a problem is knowing there is one. Being aware of violence and the potential for irreparable harm assists in curbing the inappropriate expression of abnormal violence,” Marie said.  “Awareness of violence leads to opportunities to heal the rifts it has created and head off those it will make. Violence within the household witnessed by young, impressionable people leaves its negative mark. Only by being aware of the pattern can to stop the cycle in the next generation. Awareness helps families and the community.”     

“The numbers surrounding domestic violence are staggering, but Quanada refuses to let those statistics remain faceless,” Orban said.  “Every person who walks through its doors is met with compassion, empowerment and the unwavering belief that they deserve better. It transforms survival into resilience, fear into freedom, and isolation into community.”

“To do this work year after year, often without recognition, wears on the soul,” Marie said. “One of the guests at the awards said their favorite part of the job is the annual awards to recognize the hard work done throughout the year. They were talking about national awards in Los Angeles, but the truth is QUANADA’s housework is repairing broken souls, so that deserves more than a passing thank you or the tearful appreciation of those they help.

‘We feel they should enjoy the fruits of their labor, sort to say. There is only one awardee from QUANADA house, but we hope they know we appreciate them all.”

“The biggest benefit to receiving this award is that it shines a light on the survivors we serve. It gives visibility to their strength, their stories, and the urgent need for continued support,” Render said. “On a personal level, it is incredibly humbling. This work can be emotionally heavy, and recognition like this reminds me that the effort matters. That change is happening. I hope this award inspires others to get involved, to listen more closely and to stand with survivors in our community.”

The awards ceremony at The Corinthian helped raise funds for local domestic violence victims and people around the world by spotlighting local/national talent for their achievements.  Saturday’s other awardees were:  

• Rodney Damon Collins  — Hollywood Actor 
• The Jr. Associate Personal Assistant to Nelson Mandela — Diane Luck
• Hollywood Executive — Meredith Prunkard
• Movie Director/Founder of Ohio Film Festival — Danielle Smith