KELSEYVILLE >> Since 1998, Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) has been observed across the country during the month of October. This year, Lake Family Resource Center will participate in DVAM by joining the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence”s #InterceptDV campaign and hosting advocacy walks to end domestic violence.
#InterceptDV is an effort to urge all Californians to act and join the movement to end domestic violence. Football players and other athletes in the state are encouraged to participate in the campaign, as they have an opportunity to show their fans that they value healthy relationships.
The first event taking place will be a “Because We Have Daughters” inspired event. A “No Tolerance Football Walk” to end domestic violence will take place on Oct. 10 at the Kelseyville High School (KHS) football field. During the varsity halftime event, females and especially males are encouraged to join the walk around the football field in high heels. This is a way for male figures to make a statement that domestic violence will not be tolerated in schools or the community. Game attendees will receive a free-of-charge purple wrist band.
The second event will be held on Oct. 11 at 9 a.m. (rain or shine) at Lake Family Resource Center. Parking is available at the lower parking lot of KHS. The town of Kelseyville will be decorated in purple as the inaugural Purple Power Walk to End Domestic Violence will take place. Participants are encouraged to raise awareness of the issue by embracing the color purple — the symbolic hue for domestic violence awareness. The walk is a non-timed and free-of-charge event; however, donations are accepted.
There will also be chances to win raffle prizes after the walk. Once the walk is completed, refreshments will be offered by Big Valley Rancheria.
A tour of Freedom House, Lake County”s only Domestic Violence Shelter, will follow the Purple Power Walk. Freedom House has been providing services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Lake County for more than 13 years. Services include emergency shelter, case management, counseling, legal advocacy, accompaniment, youth services, safety planning and assistance with crime victims compensation claims. Staff are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All services are free-of-charge and confidential.
The #InterceptDV campaign title not only refers to the need for the state to intercept the crisis of domestic violence, it also highlights role of individuals to commit to this concept in their own lives.
When people take the #InterceptDV Challenge, they promise to:
• Pledge intercept and intervene in abusive relationships, and contact their local domestic violence organizations to donate and/or volunteer
• Record their best interception, and post it to their social networks with the hashtag #InterceptDV
• Tag three friends and ask them to take the #InterceptDV Challenge
It takes a coordinated effort by all corners of the community — law enforcement, advocates, community groups and schools — to combat the scourge of domestic violence and declare that it will not be tolerated. Lake Family Resource Center is determined to focus awareness on domestic violence to end it in Lake County. Lake FRC provides a multitude of services to build family stability and strength. The agency supports Lake County residents in achieving stable, self-sufficient and healthy families and communities.
Call 279-0563 to find out more information.
The Lake Family Resource Center is located at 5350 Main St. in Kelseyville.
Sheri Young is the domestic violence shelter manager.
