KINGMAN, Ariz. — Nearly 120 golfers fanned out across Cerbat Cliffs Golf Course for a shotgun‑start, best‑ball tournament recently, all swinging for a cause far more serious than the sunny weather suggested. The annual fundraiser supports Kingman Aid to Abused People (KAAP), the region’s primary provider of emergency shelter and advocacy services for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
KAAP’s executive director, Suzanne Clarke, said the tournament plays a direct role in sustaining lifesaving programs.
“This golf tournament that we have put together will benefit Kingman Aid to Abused People,” Clarke said. “All proceeds go to our emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault as well as our sexual assault forensic interviews and SANE exams for all sexual assault victims.”
While golfers enjoyed a relaxed day on the course, Clarke noted that the financial support helps KAAP confront the harsh realities of domestic violence across Mohave County and beyond. The organization’s service area is extensive, stretching into rural and isolated desert communities where victims often have limited access to help.
“It’s a vast area, so we see a lot of victims that are isolated in these very rural areas and in the desert surrounding the Kingman area,” she said. “We are the hub of Mohave County, so we get the largest pool of victims.”
The demand for services continues to rise. Clarke reported that during the 2025–26 fiscal year, KAAP received more than 1,200 hotline calls, resulting in nearly 1,100 sheltered placements. Certain days stand out as particularly high‑risk.
“The leading days for these calls are Super Bowl Sunday and the day after Christmas,” she said.
Domestic violence affects more than women and children. Clarke said KAAP has seen a noticeable increase in male victims.
“We have had an influx of male victims over the past, I’d say last four years,” she said. “One in every seven men are victims of sexual and domestic violence.”
For anyone currently experiencing abuse, Clarke offered a clear first step.
“Call our hotline,” she said. “We have a 24‑hour crisis hotline — 928‑753‑4242 — and you’ll be connected with a trained advocate who will listen to your issues, provide you with resources, and find out the need for shelter. We can provide transportation to get to our location, or if it is an immediate need, we can also call law enforcement for them.”
A former victim, who spoke with The Standard anonymously, described the moment they reached out for help.
“I made the call, scared to death, but was met with a soothing voice constantly reassuring me that I made the right decision and that step by step I would be aided towards safety, and that’s exactly what happened,” the individual said. “I am so grateful I made that call.”
Saturday’s tournament brought together nearly 120 men and women for a day of friendly competition — and their participation ensures KAAP can continue providing critical support to those escaping violence. A much‑needed service, sustained by a community willing to show up.
Allen Scott
