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Be aware of domestic violence |
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October 27, 2016 |
By Melissa Krejci
Crime Victim Advocate
Boundary County Victim Services
 Thousands
of Idaho citizens will recognize October as
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). The
goal of DVAM is to increase public awareness
about the realities of domestic violence and
encourage all individuals to take action by
being an important part of preventing violence
before it occurs.
Domestic violence is an extremely serious
problem for women, children, and men. Although
uncommon, women who abuse their partners or
children pose a threat to the health of their
communities. Boundary County Victim Services has
aided 198 victims of crime as recorded in our
annual report.
Men can play a key role in setting social norms
for other men. Men in Bonners Ferry and across
the state can promote more positive attitudes
and behavior related to violence against women.
Since one in four women experience violence in
an intimate relationship during their lives, we
all have mothers, sisters, daughters or friends
who comprise that statistic, but many of them
hide it well.
It does not just happen to “other people” or
certain kinds of people.
We are a fortunate community to be afforded the
opportunity to respect and give thanks to the
many male members who mentor our youth, foster
healthy relationships and model loving behavior
to their families and their community.
We encourage and urge all of our fellow citizens
in Boundary County to support the survivors of
domestic violence and challenge them to become a
part of a preventative solution.
To increase awareness and foster close community
connection we are inviting the public to attend
our annual Fall Festival & Fashion Show.
There will be live entertainment, a fashion show
supported by Kali Copley with fresh new styles
from The Dressing Room, and some of our favorite
“local models.” We will have a live auction with
an abundance of items donated by business
owner’s community members and private donors.
Many of the items are handmade and locally
crafted.
You may purchase tickets for $15 at Under the
Sun, the Dressing Room or Bonner Books.
We are providing free appetizers and wine and
beer can be purchased on-site from Under the
Sun. We would love to see you there!
We firmly believe fathers, mothers, sisters,
brothers, coaches, teachers, and mentors are in
a unique position to prevent domestic violence
through action and conversation. Together we can
prevent and eliminate domestic violence.
For more information or to get involved in
domestic violence prevention contact: Boundary
County Victim Services located in the basement
of the courthouse. Anyone may reach us by phone
24/7 by calling (208) 267-5211. |
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