DOMESTIC VIOLENCE:
Through the Eyes of a Child

A program about the issue of Domestic Violence
as seen through the perspective of children.

Proposed 2008 ZISVAW related event organized by Zonta Clubs of Springfield, Northampton, Quinebaug and Quaboag Valley, in recognition of Domestic Violence month October 23, 2008 at the MassMutual Learning and Conference Center 350 Memorial Drive (Rt. 33) Chicopee, MA  I-90 Exit 5   exit right, center is 1/2 mi. on right Growing up in a violent home may be a terrifying and traumatic experience that can affect every aspect of a child’s life, growth, and development. Children who “witness” abuse are “victims” of abuse. In spite of this, children are incredibly resilient. When properly identified and addressed, the effects of domestic violence on children can be mitigated. In this program we will learn and share information about: ¨ The ramifications of growing up in a violent home. ¨ How to recognize children who may be at risk ¨ Strategies for responding appropriately to innocent victims ¨ The need to protect against unintended effects of taking action ¨ The supports available in our communities to help stop the violence. Who Should Attend: ¨ Leaders who care about the health and safety of children: social workers, counselors, educators, child care and youth workers, law enforcement personnel, medical and legal professionals, foster parents, child welfare board volunteers, elected officials, clergy and other interested child advocates. ¨ Parents who are or have been personally touched by abusive situations and can be encouraged to attend to learn about resources. ¨ DV advocates are invited to share information, resources and be available for referrals Program format: Keynote  The ramifications of growing up in a violent home Panelists – ¨ How to recognize children who may be at risk ¨ Strategies for responding appropriately to innocent victims ¨ The need to protect against unintended effects of taking action Open discussion – Q&As – Identification of supports in our communities working to stop the violence. Registration: $12 proposed Registrants will each receive a packet of resources, including Helping Traumatized Children Learn, a publication of Massachusetts Advocates for Children. Certificates of attendance will be made available. NEXT STEPS ***************************************************************************** Core committee: RSVP regarding the best date: Tues  April 22nd at 6pm  MORE people needed to make light work!!! Please volunteer! BJ Bourdon's office - Lester Halpern & Company P.C. 14 Bobala Road Holyoke, MA 01040 Phone: 413-536-3970   BJBourdon@halperncpa.com     www.halperncpa.com Zontians in each club: Contact key individuals by email, phone or snail mail (make record of the contact information for program mailing list) – to get (a) suggestions for dynamic speakers (keynote and panel) and why (b) what key points each would like to be sure are included. Ideas for outreach to intended audiences At the April meeting – input from each club will be reviewed; speakers and format will be finalized and communication, marketing plan created.

Successful executives serving the world from Western Mass and Connecticut-
The Zonta Clubs of Springfield, Northampton, Quaboag Valley and Quinebaug VALLEY - District I ~ Area II