Working to Break the Cycle

Our outreach team of WCA staff and volunteers has been working diligently to educate those in our community about domestic abuse and dating abuse, sexual assault and the cycle of violence.  Our goal is to reach as many people as we can through informational presentations to student groups, schools, community organizations, businesses and other partner organizations.

Statistics tell us that one in four women and one in seven men will experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. And, one in 10 high school students has been purposefully hit, slapped or physically hurt by a boyfriend or girlfriend. These numbers are frightening and they mean that you know at least one person who will be a victim of domestic abuse in their lifetime.

If not stopped, this abuse is cyclical and often moves from one generation to the next without pause.

According to a study done by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

• 30% of adult abusers were themselves abused as children.
• Boys who witness domestic violence when they’re young are twice as likely to later become abusive towards their partners and/or children.
• Half of girls who witness domestic violence when they’re young will be in abusive relationships later on in life.

We believe that change starts with one person and we encourage everyone in our community to start the conversations with their family members, children, coworkers and friends. Let the change begin with you.

Information is crucial to education and prevention. What can you do? Start the conversation with your friends, family members and co-workers. Not sure how?

• Schedule an information presentation with the WCA Outreach team!
• Have a health or wellness fair at your place of business? Let us come set up an informational table.
• Ask for resources to distribute at your organization.

Find out more on our webpage here.

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