J.McLaughlin generously offered a percentage of their sales on February 8th to the Darien Domestic Abuse Council. Hundreds of Darien residents have been victims of domestic violence, and many more have gone unreported. Domestic abuse takes a physical and psychological toll on the victim as well as the family. The DDAC is committed to promoting the education, awareness, and prevention of domestic abuse in the community of Darien. The training offered also helps students going off to college, and in the work force.

The Respect Works program offers social and emotional connections by hosting guest speakers, activities, and round table discussions. Darien Domestic Abuse Council works very closely with YWCA Greenwich Domestic Abuse Services, Darien Police Department’s Domestic Violence Liaisons, and the Center for Family Justice.

For more information on the Darien Domestic Abuse Council or Respect Works www.ddacinc06820.org

The Center for Family Justice recently held a presentation on Sex Trafficking at the Darien Community Library to Respect Works, a group of Darien high schoolers mentored and sponsored by the Darien Domestic Abuse Council that meets once a month at the library.  A discussion followed the presentation.

President Caroline Nicholls - “On Wednesday, March 22, Respect Works Club had the honor of meeting Katelyn Owens, from the Center for Family Justice. We learned about human trafficking which is essentially modern-day slavery. Katelyn is committed to raising awareness for victims and her insight has changed my understanding of the topic. It was extremely eye opening to learn that one is most likely to be sex trafficked by someone you know.”

And from Riley Scallen, Vice-President – “Such a great presentation on sex trafficking and domestic abuse. Katelyn taught me so many new things I hadn’t thought of before. It was so informative, and I walked out of the room with an open mind and information I will take with me especially when I go to college next year.”

Respect Works meets once a month September-May. For more information, contact Janice.marzano@gmail.com

respectworks

This volunteer group, working under the umbrella of DDAC, is comprised of high school teens spreading news and awareness in the town of Darien for Teen Dating Violence and Domestic Violence issues. There are regularly scheduled meetings throughout the school year where members learn about the signs in teen dating that may escalate into violence, understand the value in being a bystander, and plan events to raise awareness within their community. Follow their instagram @respect_works!

A few quotes from the members of Respect Works:

"To acquire change, the process can not be thought of as a one-step equation. Respect Works is taking the first step by spreading awareness about domestic violence and its impacts, but there is an extensive algorithm to work through before domestic violence will actually stop. But no matter how long it takes, we are going to keep pushing to find that final answer.” - Charlotte Sulger

"If we come together as a community, we can be the generation that breaks the cycle of Domestic Violence. You’ve got this, we’ve got you. Together we will take a stand against Domestic Violence. “ - Courtney Ball

“I love being a member of Respect Works. I think it is an extremely eye-opening and rewarding experience, as many people are unaware of how prominent domestic violence is both in our country and even within our community. It feels good to think that something we’re doing is making a difference in the lives of people who have been through so much, even if it is something small.” - Katie Lehan

“I am so proud and happy that the Purple Hearts Project brought the community together for such an important cause. During this difficult time, many people are stuck at home with their abusers. This small act of kindness will hopefully bring light to these people’s lives.” - Katie Chandler