Addressing Domestic Violence in Lane County

Video from KEZI here

Contact: Lane County Commissioner Rob Handy, 682-4207; Lane County Commissioner Pete Sorenson, 682-4203

What:  Lane County Commissioner Rob Handy and co-hosts Commissioner Pete Sorenson and Mayor of Eugene Kitty Piercy are holding “Addressing Domestic Violence in Lane County” Town Hall and Community Forum.

When:  Activities between 5:30-8:30 p.m., Wednesday, October 21

• 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Arts and Crafts for Children and Music by Uncle Bunkle!
• 6:30 – 8:00 p.m., Town Hall forum
• 8:00 – 8:30 p.m., Candlelight Vigil

Where:  Harris Hall, Public Service Building, 125 E. Eighth Ave., Eugene

Who:  Womenspace Executive Director Peggy Whalen, University of Oregon/Trauma Healing Project Representative Jeff Todahl, and Department of Human Services Community Resource Coordinator Rose Wilde.

Lane County Commissioner Rob Handy, Commissioner Pete Sorenson and Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy invite community members to learn more about Domestic Violence in Lane County and help raise awareness on this very important public safety issue.

“Helping families stay safe and free from violence is a core part of a functioning public safety system. I hope this forum will raise awareness about what survivors need to get safe and heal from violence, and what we all can do, as leaders, friends, family and community members, to promote safe relationships and families,” said Commissioner Rob Handy.

The event is co-sponsored by the Lane County Domestic Violence Council, Womenspace, and the Oregon Department of Human Services. It will include presentations and a panel discussion about supporting survivors with Peggy Whalen, Jeff Todahl and Rose Wilde.

“During this recession, it is even more critical that survivors of domestic violence know there is help available,” said Rose Wilde, Department of Human Services Community Resource coordinator. “I am glad for the opportunity to discuss the help available to survivors of violence from the Department of Human Services.”

The evening will begin with a gathering that includes children's activities and a special children's musical guest, Uncle Bunkle, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Children are invited to participate in the Hands Are Not for Hurting craft project with their families. Information about nonprofit and government services related to domestic violence will also be available outside of Harris Hall, on the Wayne Morse Free Speech Plaza, weather permitting. Following the town hall forum, Womenspace will conclude the evening with a candlelight vigil honoring victims of domestic violence at the corner of Eighth and Oak from 8-8:30 p.m.