GOSHEN, Ind -- October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and Goshen College and YMCA North Central Indiana are working to raise awareness about domestic violence and remember those who have lost their lives.

Students and community members gathered on campus for a candlelight vigil, where organizers read the names of domestic violence victims in Elkhart County and across Indiana. Students also created paper bag lanterns with messages for support.

Amy Hill, President and CEO of the YWCA North Central Indiana, says the vigil is an opportunity to remember victims and recognize the impact of domestic violence.

"October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, so we're out here on campus at Goshen College for a candlelight vigil. It's an opportunity to recognize and remember those individuals that have lost their lives not only here locally but across the state of Indiana as a direct result of domestic violence.'

Hill says domestic violence continues to affect people across Indiana, making awareness of available resources especially important. 

"You know statistics in the state of Indiana show that domestic violence is on the rise, and what that means is that one in two women will be affected by domestic violence. That means the likelihood of you knowing someone, whether it's a coworker, a family member, or a friend, may be impacted by domestic violence. So, it's really important to make sure individuals are aware of the resources available through the YWCA, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to help support those that may need the additional support."

Organizers also wanted to emphasize that the people being remembered were more than statistics.

"We gathered here today, so we want people to know that the individuals that have lost their lives due to domestic violence-they're more than just statistics. They were our friends, our family members, our community members. We feel it's really important to share their names for the local individuals. We shared a little bit about their story and shared about their loved ones. So, it's really important to humanize that. It's not just numbers. These are real people's lives who are infected, and there's a lasting impact as a result of domestic violence."

The YWCA offers emergency shelter and other services for people experiencing domestic violence, including assistance with safety planning, housing, and financial independence. 

For help or information, call 1-866-YWCA.