Dockside Restaurant to Host WAAV Fundraiser

A fundraiser is planned for Wednesday, May 16 at Dockside Restaurant on Main Street in Greenwood to benefit the Wakefield Alliance Against Violence. In order for the total benefit WAAV, those eating there that night will need to present a coupon, which can be found on the website: www.waavonline.org.

WAAV has been active in town since it was formally organized in July, 2007, at the suggestion of Police Chief Smith, with an initial grant from the Rotary Club of Wakefield, in response to the serious problem of violence in the community. WAAV chose as its mission a dedication to "creating a lifestyle free from violence in Wakefield by reaching out to the community, raising awareness, providing education resources, and support to families and individuals, with an emphasis on prevention.," Wakefield Alliance Against Violence continues to be inspired by the long-standing and successful organization known as MAAV (Melrose Alliance Against Violence)

Members are comprised of concerned citizens, healthcare professionals, educators, library personnel and police liaison. The organization works in collaboration with the public schools, Wakefield Parent Partnership, Beebe Library, similar groups from surrounding communities, law enforecement, and WCAT in promoting programs to educate the public on issues of domestic violence in all its forms, plus teen dating violence, bullying, sexual assault, and more recently, sex trafficking and promoting civility.

WAAV has distributed cards to varoius churches, restaurants, shops, salons in town, set in a stand with a little red sign saying "Do You Feel Safe?" These "palm - sized" cards give information on where a victim, or the loved one of a victim, can call for help. As one of its early projects, WAAV collaborated with Hallmark Health and Melrose Wakefield Hospital in producing and distributing a booklet on Shaken Baby Syndrome to new parents. 

In order for the fundraiser to benefit WAAV, those eating at Dockside that night will need to present a coupon, which can be found on the website: www.waavonline.org. For any questions regarding the fundraiser, you may email at dmurphy@hallmarkhealth.org or elizlowry86@rcn.com.

All concerned citiens are welcome to join and help WAAV to promote a safe Wakefield. To contact Wakefield Alliance Against Violence, email Lwaav@aol.com.