A popular American television game show, “The Newlywed Game”, debuted back in 1966 and featured newly married couples who competed against each other in a series of revealing question rounds to determine how well the couples knew each other.
On February 6, an updated version of the game show, the “Not So Newlywed Game”, will take place in the Branigin Room of Franklin College. Turning Point Domestic Violence Services of Johnson County is hosting this event.
Turning Point’s mission is to work toward the prevention and the elimination of domestic and dating violence. Michele Lee, community services director for Turning Point in Johnson County, said “we do this work by way of crisis intervention and advocacy, prevention education, and offering public trainings and awareness opportunities. We engage with survivors and provide legal advocacy, safety planning, residential and nonresidential services, case management, and navigation of community resources, through a 24-hour crisis helpline, evidence-based curriculums in the schools, and by collaborating with community partner organizations that support vulnerable populations. We strive to educate our local law enforcement agencies, local businesses and local service agencies.”
Turning Point of Johnson County recently moved to a new space allowing them to provide needed essential items. Survivors can now access showers, laundry facilities, food and a boutique. The new space is welcoming and comfortable, and survivors feel safe when they meet with an advocate. Funded in diverse ways, Turning Point receives federal and state grants, United Way funding, local community grants, community foundation grants, private donations, and funds from fundraising events.
Lee has been working in the social services field for over 25 years. Her role is to support and empower survivors by working alongside staff, creating and maintaining community partnerships and fundraising opportunities, providing prevention and education groups, as well as providing outreach and awareness in our community.
The “Not So Newlywed Game” provides an opportunity to promote healthy relationships within the community. Emcees for the evening are Amy Skirvin from Sweat Shop and Franklin Magazine, along with Beau Jackson from Modern Woodmen. They are returning this year as emcees after requests for them to return after doing such a fabulous job at last year’s event.
Local celebrity couples will compete to be the “Not So Newlywed Game” champions for 2025 based on points scored for the most correct answers. One other couple will be awarded the Most Valuable Couple with the most money raised for the agency. People can vote for their favorite couple(s) via the link below or by visiting the website, also listed below.
This year’s contestants are Rafael and Beth Sanchez, Jesse and Kim Spurling, Zach and Travis Stevenson, and Eric and Sarah Ward.
“Beth and I love the community which we call home,” said Rafael Sanchez. “We want to embrace not-for-profits which seek to give a hand up to others in love, kindness and compassion.”
“Kim and I have always enjoyed helping our community,” said Jesse Spurling. “We believe in the mission of Turning Point and look forward to beating Rafael Sanchez.”
Tickets for the event are $40 per person and tables are available with sponsorship. Dinner is included in the price of your ticket and a cash bar will be available. Watch social media for updates leading up to the event.
To learn more about Turning Point Domestic Violence Services of Johnson County, visit turningpointdv.org.
For ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities, visit weblink.donorperfect.com/NSNWJOCO.
For assistance with domestic violence, please contact the 24-hour help hotline at 1-800-221-6311.
