This February 14th was celebrated by millions across the globe as Valentine's Day. However in lower Fairfield County, the Domestic Violence Crisis Center and The Center for Sexual Assault Crisis Counseling and Education were looking to be part of One Billion Rising, a worldwide campaign asking individuals and groups to rise up, dance and to demand an end to violence against women and girls. These groups organized two events in both Norwalk and Stamford asking people to RISE in support of this cause.
The New Canaan Domestic Violence Partnership was active at New Canaan High School on Valentine's Day promoting awareness of the international event. They helped organize an information booth at lunches where students took information about dating violence and domestic abuse, signed posters in support of the cause and left with stickers proclaiming "I rose today...2/14/13" Students also participated by rising at their tables during lunch.
Jackie D'Louhy, LCSW Youth and Family Specialist for New Canaan said, "The students are always willing to support a good cause. Some even were supporting people they know and love." D'Louhy said over 150 students signed the posters stating "I rise for...."
The Partnership was joined by New Canaan Youth Services, NCHS students and staff, New Canaan Police Department and the Outback Teen Center.
For more information about One Billion Rising, visit www.dvccct.org/obr and for help with Domestic Abuse or Dating Violence call the DVCC hotline at 1-888-774-2900 or contact New Canaan Human Services at 203-594-3081.
