YWCA Holding Week Without Violence Events

For more than 20 years, the YWCA has set aside one week in October as a Week Without Violence, a global movement to end violence against women and girls. From October 13-20, YWCAs throughout the United State, including the Darien/Norwalk YWCA , hold events and share information with a common goal in mind: ending gender-based violence.

Events are planned in support of the movement this year include “The 1st Step” Fundraising Campaign. This campaign encourages people to literally take a step, walk, run, bike in support of raising awareness and help put an end to these crimes. Those interested in supporting the campaign this way can sign up at www.charityfootprints.com/ywca1step or simply register and make a donation. Proceeds will go to The Rowan Center, a sexual assault resource agency and to support YWCA mission aligned programming.

There will also be a Candlelight Vigil with a bonfire & to s’mores held on the front lawn of the YWCA on October 20th at 6pm to thank all 1st Step participants who have taken the first step and to remember the victims of gender-based violence.

In addition to the 1st Step initiative, the YWCA is partnering with the Rowan Center to bring the presentation “What Would Your Child Do? Sexting & Consent” for parents of teens. The presentation n will explain the challenges facing kids and teens today, and offer concrete advice for you to help your child make safe, healthy and respectful decisions about media and sexuality. The presentation is on October 17that 7pm at the YWCA in Darien. More information about this and Week without Violence can be found at www.ywcadn.org. Media Contact: Jen Russey, Communications Director, jen.russey@ywcadn.org.