Press release from:
Tim Heider, Clackamas County Public Affairs Coordinator
Re-posted by: Clackamas Co. Sheriff's Office

Free workshops -- starting April 22 -- help women break cycle of domestic violence
 
If you have been emotionally or physically abused by a current or former intimate partner, the Women’s Empowerment Project (WEP) can help you break the cycle.

Sponsored by Clackamas County Community Corrections, WEP is designed for women who were in abusive relationships in the past, or who are thinking about ending a current one. Classes are free and open to all women in Clackamas County.

The day class begins Friday, April 22. Topics include:

• The cycle of violence
• Coping mechanisms
• Effects of abuse on children
• Risk assessments
• Safety planning
• Non-violent communication
• Self-esteem

About 85% of domestic-violence victims are women. Abusers hurt their victims economically, emotionally, verbally and sexually. They usually control their violence carefully, ensuring their behavior is kept out of the public eye.
 
If you or someone you know is interested in the WEP workshops, please contact Victim Services Program Coordinator Patricia Barrera at patriciabar@co.clackamas.or.us or by calling 503-655-8776.

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