VICENZA, Italy -- "Purple for a Purpose," this year's theme for the Family Advocacy Program (FAP) in their crusade to end domestic violence in the Vicenza and Darby military communities.
Domestic Violence is often a topic that can make people feel uncomfortable, says Family Advocacy Program Manager Janine Harper. "It's a real problem that impacts the readiness of our troops and welfare of our families. There are so many causes and conditions that contribute to domestic violence, but the important thing is there is help here in our community."
Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone, yet the problem is often overlooked, excused or denied. This can be especially true when the abuse is psychological or financial. Domestic violence takes a community to defeat.
The Family Advocacy Program teaches the 3 R's: recognizing the symptoms, responding to the situation, and reporting to help a community take action against it. These simple actions can help protect victims and give them the courage to come forward and seek assistance.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month kicks off Oct. 1 with the signing of the Proclamation by Col. Erik M. Berdy, commander, United States Army Garrison Italy, at Army Community Service on Caserma Ederle. The goal is to raise awareness of the signs of relationship abuse and help individuals and couples address problems early. Family Advocacy offers a wide range of supports to families that may be fostering unhealthy relationships.
Goals for the month include addressing signs through early intervention through programs such as commander and troop annual training, Family Readiness Group informational sessions, Anger Management and Stress Management classes, relationship workshops, parenting strategies, New Parent Home Visit Program and many others.
Additionally, FAP also has the Victim Advocacy Program. A victim advocate (VA) is a trained professional who provides non-clinical advocacy services and support to Soldiers, civilians and their family members experiencing domestic abuse. While not a first responder, victim advocates are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week for emergencies. They are able to provide crisis intervention, safety planning, non-judgmental support, assistance in securing medical treatment, information on legal rights, and referrals to other military partners. The on-call VA will empower victims to make informed and independent decisions to help facilitate and support the healing and recovery process. The VA can be reached by calling 335-805-7867.
Please join the Family Advocacy team throughout the month in support of their mission to aid the community in raising awareness and helping victims of domestic violence.
EVENTS FOR OCTOBER
Wear Purple Wednesdays: Everyone shares responsibility for safety and well-being of the military community. Join FAP in October to continue the prevention and awareness of domestic violence by wearing the color purple every Wednesday.
Anger Management: Oct. 2, 10:30-11:30 a.m., ACS Bldg. 108 on Caserma Ederle; and Oct. 3 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the library on Caserma Del Din.
Stress Management: Oct. 9, 10:30-11:30 a.m., ACS Bldg. 108; and Oct. 10, 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the library on Caserma Del Din
Domestic Violence 5k Run: Oct. 20, 9 a.m., at Ederle Track and Field
For additional information about class offerings, program support or FAP community activities, contact Jessica Daigle at DSN 634-8526 or jessica.s.daigle.ctr@mail.mil.
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