Did you know that last year 252,535 domestic violence-related calls were made to state and local hotlines in New York? These pleas for help tell the story of a growing social problem. EAC Network’s Abusive Partner Intervention Program (APIP) and our domestic abuse prevention initiatives were created to respond to and address this pressing social problem within our communities. Domestic Violence Awareness Month, recognized every October, focuses public attention on this pressing social problem and solution-based programs, like APIP, that are creating positive change.
How Our Abusive Partner Intervention Program (APIP) Creates Positive Change
The goal of EAC Network’s Abusive Partner Intervention Program (APIP) is to support and encourage at-risk individuals to develop life skills and strategies that will enable them to have healthier relationships.
Its comprehensive curriculum is specifically designed for individuals who have been charged with conflict-related offenses.
APIP’s curriculum encourages participants to:
- Examine the behavioral and motivating factors that contributed to their referral
- Learn about the consequences of their aggression
- Analyze the cost of their behavior to their family and community-at-large
Throughout the 16 to 24-week program, APIP practices a culturally sensitive approach that engages participants and motivates them to take action.
Domestic Violence is a Community Issue
Domestic violence is defined as “the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another.”
It is a social problem that does not discriminate. It can affect the lives of any member of the community, regardless of economic status, gender, race, age, or sexual orientation.
What We All Can Do During Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Whether or not domestic violence has directly touched your life, there are actions you can take to participate this October.
Sharing Information with Friends
One of the best, and perhaps easiest, ways to raise awareness is to share resources with those in your life. Today, social media is the perfect place to publicly pledge your support for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Or, if you are not on social media, phone a friend and let them know how you feel.
Be an Ally to Someone in Need
If you know an individual who is experiencing a potential domestic violence issue, follow these basic suggestions to being an ally:
- Initiate a conversation
- Let go of expectations
- Listen actively
- Challenge your existing attitudes and beliefs
- Believe the victims and let them know that you do
- Don’t be judgmental
- Refrain from giving advice
- Validate their feelings
- Avoid victim-blaming
- Take the matter seriously
- Offer help or assistance
- Refer them to a service provider
Support Programs and Services Making a Difference Everyday
For more than half a century, EAC Network has supported vulnerable children, families, and seniors who live in our communities. Over the last five decades, we have depended on the kindness and generosity of donors and sponsors just like you. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, consider making a contribution to support our mission to build a bridge to a brighter tomorrow for those in need throughout Greater New York.
