News

September 29, 2021

Take a Stand Against Domestic Violence

YWCA NorthEastern New York is proud to be hosting Domestic Violence Awareness Month community events during the month of October. During the month they are asking the community to get involved and advocate for the victims and survivors of domestic violence in NorthEastern NY.

As one of the area’s leading organizations for domestic violence services, YWCA NENY will host several events in the month of October to educate the community and support survivors.

On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men. Domestic violence occurs in all cultures, races, religions, and socio-economic statuses.

YWCA NENY’s domestic violence services include a shelter, counseling, a 24-hour hotline, and advocacy, which help approximately 5,000 people each year. All services are free and confidential.

“We are committed to being there for all those affected by domestic violence. Through these October events we will recognize and celebrate the unwavering dedication of our expert staff; unite with the community; provide programming focused on hope and resilience; stand-up to gender-based violence; and support and believe survivors,” states Lauren Trunko, YWCA NENY’s Women & Family Services Director.

This year will be a hybrid of in-person and virtual events.

  • On Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. YWCA NENY will kick-off Domestic Violence Month at Firestone 151. This free event will give the opportunity for community members to learn more about our domestic violence services in a relaxed atmosphere, accompanied by silent auction and live music. Donations will be accepted but not required. Wearing purple is encouraged.
  • On Tuesday, October 19, 2021 a virtual panel discussion will be held from 12 – 1 p.m. The panel hosted by YCWA NENY will be entitled “Experiences of a Domestic Violence Service Provider. ”During this live discussion, service providers will give an intimate glimpse into a day in the life of a DV provider, answer commonly asked questions, and see how COVID has changed how we help survivors. This program is FREE and will be live-streamed to YWCA NENY’s Facebook and YouTube pages.
  • On Thursday, October 21, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. is YWCA’s annual Take Back the Night March will be held in order to DEMAND an end to gender-based violence. The night will begin with a brief program followed by a passionate take-to-the-streets march. Participants are encouraged to wear purple, bring signs, and loudly raise awareness in honor of victims and survivors of domestic violence.

All Domestic Violence Awareness Month event information can be found at www.ywca-neny.org/october