West Orange Event Inspires Empathy For Domestic Violence Victims

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the Township of West Orange. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month which provides a time to address an important issue that affects many lives in countless communities. A program hosted at West Orange Town Hall by the Department of Senior Services on October 11 offered an opportunity to learn more. The program entitled “In Her Shoes” offers great value beyond the event itself. It was presented by the Rachel Coalition in cooperation with Jewish Family Services of MetroWest New Jersey. In a powerful event, participants were given a unique opportunity to step into the shoes of domestic violence victims. The goal was to create awareness and empathy towards the challenges faced by those trapped in abusive relationships. The event used a combination of immersive activities and storytelling to convey the harsh reality of domestic violence and also focused on the healing process and the support systems available for survivors.

The Rachel Coalition, a program of Jewish Family Services of MetroWest New Jersey provides services to domestic violence victims and their families within Essex, Morris, Sussex, and parts of Union Counties. Services include individual and group counseling for victims, children’s counseling, legal assistance, referrals, and education and outreach.

It is an important topic because everyone can be part of the solution to a serious mental health issue that equally affects children and adults. Facts about Domestic Violence state: Every 9 seconds in the US a woman is assaulted or beaten and 1 in 3 women have experienced some form of physical violence. It is not limited to women since the statistics for men show 1 in 4. Domestic violence goes beyond the boundaries of cultures, and socio-economic statuses and thrives mostly in silence, fear, and ignorance. Discussions and programs such as this help create a supportive environment for this issue that can lead to the transformation of attitudes and social norms for the overall betterment of society.

Overall, the “In Her Shoes” event succeeded in creating a deep sense of empathy and understanding among its participants. Attendees left with a heightened awareness of the struggles domestic violence victims face and a commitment to being part of the solution by offering support, resources, and solidarity. This experience served as a powerful reminder that everyone can contribute to the fight against domestic violence by walking in the shoes of those who have suffered.

Anyone needing help can reach out to the Rachel Coalition by phone at (973) 765-9050 or on the web at www.jfsmetrowest.org. New 40-hour Domestic Violence Response Team (DVRT) training opportunity begins next week and more volunteers are needed. West Orange DVRT Coordinator, Laura Van Dyke, can be reached at (973) 325-4105. Upcoming Department of Senior Services programs can be seen at westorange.org.

• See Related: Volunteers Needed To Help Domestic Violence Victims In Essex County

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