Not a week goes by without news of tragic killings committed in our schools, houses of worship and communities; children at play, teens in school, men and women in prayer. What can we do to stop the violence? Joining with the YWCA of the USA and more than 300 YWCAs nationwide, the YWCA of Dutchess County, a United Way Agency, will observe the 5th annual YWCA Week Without Violence, October 17-23. Different topics are addressed each day of the week. Activities will be held each day, giving many people in Dutchess County the opportunity to act against and prevent violence in their lives.
The week’s main event is a community forum: "A Partnership Against Violence" to be held on Tuesday, October 19, 7 pm to 9 pm, in the Poughkeepsie High School auditorium located on Forbus Street in Poughkeepsie. A panel discussion will be held, with a question and answer period following.
This is an opportunity for members of the community to learn what violence prevention and intervention resources are available in Dutchess County. Refreshments will be provided. There is no charge for the panel discussion and is open to the entire adult community.
Other events during the week include: Sunday, October 17: "A Day of Remembrance" Local churches and synagogues are invited to hold memorial services in memory of loved ones lost to violence. Monday, October 18: "Protecting Our Children" Teachers asked to discuss violence prevention with students Tuesday, October 19: "Making Our Schools Safe." Wednesday, October 20: "Violence Against Women" Dutchess County’s Coalition Against Domestic Violence "Clothesline Project" will be on view at the YWCA and the Poughkeepsie Galleria. The Clothesline displays T-shirts made by Domestic Violence survivors and family Thursday, October 21: "Facing Violence Among Men" This topic will be discussed at the Family Partnership Center, Poughkeepsie, 7 pm to 9 pm, facilitated by Lateef Islam, Director. Saturday, October 23: "Replacing Violence with Sports, Fitness and Family Activities." Special free activities and exercise opportunities will be available at participating health and recreation facilities, including: the YWCA of Dutchess County, Poughkeepsie YMCA, Gold’s Gym, Fit Ms., World Gym, All Sport Poughkeepsie and Fishkill, and the McCann Civic Center Ice Arena.
"We can’t stop violence in a week," stated Sarah Peacock, YWCA Board member and Chairperson of the YWCA Week Without Violence, "but this is a way to begin." For more information, call the fitness facilities and the YWCA of Dutchess County: 454-6770.
