GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) - The 2013 Brown County Budget shows funding will not be cut for domestic abuse programs at Golden House.

The staff feared cuts after the non-profit lost $30,000 last year.

However, as Local 5 told you last week need is at an all time high.

"I was the perfect example" says survivor Jennifer Chaudoir. "The perfect couple down the street with children, playing at the park, all wearing smiles on our faces outwardly".  

Chaudoir says life behind closed doors was much darker in two abusive marriages.

"I would always go into the doctor and make up an excuse for the injuries I had" she says.

Her children watched as their two dogs were tortured and killed. Then, it got more serious.

"My youngest who was 3 months old at the time suffered broken ribs and ankles and showed signs of being choked" says Chaudoir with tears in her eyes.

Jennifer coped by running, working her way to a full marathon. 

"I felt strong and then I started succeeding in competing and running which made me feel even stronger".

With that newfound confidence and help from Golden House, Jennifer got a restraining order against her husband.

"Myself  and my kids are survivors" she told a crowd gathered to mark the start of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Unfortunately Jennifer's story isn't unique.

On Monday 709 ribbons lined the Brown County Courthouse, one for each domestic abuse arrest and referral so far in 2012. That does not account for the 12 that happened over the weekend.

Golden House helps families like the Chaudiors heal, but they say prevention is how Brown County can say "no more" to domestic abuse.

"We saw about 19,000 kids last year" says Karen Faulkner, Executive Director for Golden House. "We are talking with them about respect and healthy relationships, and what to do if something isn't going right in your home".

Jennifer hopes her story will give others courage.

"I am so grateful that I am here and able to do this that I hope I can help someone else now".

Local 5 is proud to sponsor Golden House's annual fundraiser "All that Glitters" on October 19th.

The night includes wine tasting, live music from Boogie and the Yo Yoz, along with great prizes. Local 5's Millaine Wells is acting as emcee. To join her click here for tickets.