November marks Family Violence Prevention month in Alberta, and the Whitecourt Family Violence Initiative has a few community events in store to raise awareness of the issue, as well as what supports are available.
On Nov. 1, the organization set up a stock of purple glow bracelets and awareness pins at the Alan and Jean Millar Centre, which are still available to pick up and wear throughout the month. Courtney Hardman, Family Violence Liaison, said the hope is that other residents will ask about what the pin or bracelet represents, helping to spread awareness of the prevalence of the issue here in Alberta.
On Nov. 7, the organization will focus on business connections: volunteers will head to local businesses, including doctors’ offices, hotels, realtors and salons, to deliver resource packages with business cards, brochures and other information about local and provincial support services.
A Candlelight Vigil will take place on Nov. 14 at 6 p.m. in the Twice is Nice parking lot. Presenters will share statistics about domestic violence in Alberta and a poem by a survivor, before lighting candles and starting the candlelight vigil walk. Afterwards, attendees can enjoy hot chocolate and access information about resources available in the area. All ages are welcome, and organizers expect the event to last about one hour.
Finally, there will be a special presentation at the Whitecourt Wolverines game on Nov. 21. Volunteers will hand out more purple glow bracelets and awareness pins, and at one point, the lights will be off to see the bracelets shine their support. The Family Violence Initiative will also give a speech about the awareness month, before facilitating the puck drop.
