Current Impact Projects

 
 
 

L-R: Katie Primmer, Tess Hageney, Maeve Brennan, Findley Ernst

Sweeten the Holidays - Bake Sale for Domestic Violence Awareness

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month when we come together to raise awareness and support those affected by domestic violence. This year, Respect Works, a group of dedicated teenagers from our community, hosted a bake sale.

Why a Bake Sale in October?

Domestic violence affects individuals and families year-round, but October is when we take a stand and shine a light on this critical issue. Our bake sale allows you to satisfy your sweet tooth and contribute to a cause that needs our attention.

Remember the Cause Year-Round:

While our bake sale takes place in October, the need for support and awareness doesn't stop when the month ends. You can remember the cause year-round by donating. Your contributions help local organizations assist survivors and raise awareness about domestic violence.

The Holiday Season and Giving:

As the holiday season approaches, consider making a special donation to support survivors of domestic violence. Your generosity can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most during this time of year.

Join us this October as we use the power of sweetness to raise awareness and support survivors during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. And remember, the spirit of giving can extend throughout the year and into the holiday season.

 
 

Rita Bailey - ED, DDAC, Executive Board Members: Co- President Tess Hageney, Co- President Maeve Brennan, Secretary- Molly Zengo, RW Facilitator - Janice Marzano, Social Media - Sara Droogan, Missing from picture is Treasurer Stella Bartolotta

10/15/2023 Press Release

Respect Works, a group of Darien high school aged students who are mentored and sponsored by the Darien Domestic Abuse Council, meet once a month during the school year at the Darien YMCA. The students are educated on awareness, and prevention of domestic abuse in the community by providing education on domestic violence and on the services available to victims as well as their families through programs and events, and to foster positive interpersonal relationships in the community. Respect Works members work on bringing awareness to not only their peers, but the community and carry on what they have learned after graduating high school whether to college, the work force or military service.

The Respect Works program also 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.

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 and the family. The Darien Domestic Abuse Council is committed to promoting the education, awareness, and prevention of domestic abuse in the community of Darien, CT. The training offered also helps students going off to college, and in the work force.

For more information check the DDAC website www.ddacinc06820.org

L-R: Caroline Nichols, Riley Scallen / Placing purple ribbons around Darien last October to bring awareness to Domestic Violence Awareness month.

 

THE R.A.D. SYSTEMS OF SELF DEFENSE
You Can Do This.

Empowering Women with RAD Training at the Darien YMCA

Completed drills for Rape Aggressor Defense (R.A.P.) program led by Detective Leslie Silva and Officer Kelly Thurston

The Darien Domestic Violence Council is committed to empowering women and promoting personal safety within our community. One of the key ways we achieve this is through our ongoing partnership with the Darien YMCA, where Detective Leslie Silva and Officer Kelly Thurston provided valuable Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) training to women in our area.

We understand the importance of equipping women with the tools and knowledge to protect themselves. RAD training is a comprehensive program designed to teach women practical self-defense techniques, raise awareness about personal safety, and build confidence.

Meet Our Instructors:

Detective Leslie Silva has a wealth of experience in law enforcement and is passionate about sharing her expertise with the women in our community. She has a strong commitment to promoting safety and self-empowerment.

Officer Kelly Thurston is a dedicated professional who brings her knowledge of self-defense and personal safety to our RAD training program. She is committed to ensuring that women in Darien feel confident and secure.

Why RAD Training Matters:

Self-Defense Skills: RAD training equips women with practical self-defense techniques that can be invaluable in a dangerous situation.

Awareness and Prevention: The program focuses on raising awareness about personal safety and teaches strategies for avoiding potentially dangerous situations.

Building Confidence: RAD training helps women of all ages build the confidence they need to stand up for themselves and stay safe.

Upcoming Training Sessions:

To find out about upcoming sessions, dates, and registration details, please contact the Darien Police Department or check the R.A.D. PROGRAMS IN CONNECTICUT http://www.rad-systems.com/program_ct.html

Your safety is important to us, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Empower yourself, stay safe, and join us for the next RAD training. Together, we can make our community a safer place for all.

For More Information: http://www.rad-systems.com/