OTTUMWA — Mari Culver found a receptive audience Tuesday morning.

Iowa’s first lady stopped by Ottumwa Regional Health Center to help the local Crisis and Women’s Shelter give out awards recognizing the volunteers for their contributions. Many of those volunteers were advocates for improving the lives of women and children.

So when Culver spoke about the need to educate the public about domestic violence, and to better fund social services, many in the crowd were nodding their agreement.

Culver said she’d like to see a day when shelters are unnecessary. In the meantime, she told attendees, someone needs to look after those in immediate need.

But she wants lawmakers to continue to address the underlying problems that cause homelessness, domestic abuse and child neglect.

Those kids face problems even adults shouldn’t have to deal with, she said. She knows her family has been fortunate, and feels moved by the contrast between her life and the lives of those in need.

“My 5-year-old is worried about whether to be Spider-Man for Halloween, but these children are worried about when they might get their next meal, or they don’t know where they’ll be staying, or they’re worried because they are victims of violence,” she said.

And that leads to future problems.

“How can we expect a child growing up in an unstable, chaotic environment to become a well-adjusted, healthy and productive adult?” she asked.

Culver understands finding a solution will take time, but said the effort must be redoubled now.

“Public awareness is the first step. There’s never been a public face for this problem,” she said, then quipped, “That’s why I’m willing to use my mug.”

But domestic abuse, poverty and other ills must be fought with social services agencies getting the resources they need.

“Awareness isn’t going to solve the issues, so to that extent, with awareness and education, hopefully, funding will follow,” she said.

On those occasions when it doesn’t, she plans to speak up. One volunteer recognized by the Crisis and Women’s Shelter said Culver is in a good position to make her voice heard.

“She has been a true advocate,” said Tom Lazio of American Home Finding.