Davie Center for Violence Prevention is challenging the community to participate in a special “#1Thing” campaign this October during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Many people care and understand that domestic violence is a serious public health problem, but believe their actions won’t make a difference.

Linda Coplin, outreach and prevention coordinator said: “Anyone can become a part of the #1Thing campaign. What if everyone did one thing and that one thing inspired a few others? It would create a ripple effect and our collective ‘one things’ would have the potential to transform our community and impact future generations.”

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men. One in 15 children are exposed to intimate partner violence each year, and 90 percent of these children are eyewitnesses to this violence.

Children who grow up with frequent exposure to violence in the home are predisposed to numerous social and psychological problems. As adults, they are at increased risk of becoming a new generation of victims and abusers, because they are taught from an early age that violence is a normal part of life, Coplin said.

She invites all Davie residents to gather at Main Street Park, 192 N. Main St., Mocksville, at noon on Friday, Oct. 12. “One thing we will do is remember and honor those who have lost their lives as a result of abuse, offer support to survivors, connect with those who work to end violence and raise public awareness about intimate partner violence in our community.”

The event is the effort of Davie Center for Violence Prevention Advisory Board, staff and volunteers, local judges, law enforcement officials, the faith community and nonprofit agencies.

For additional suggestions on how to get involved or for more information about domestic violence, contact Coplin at (336) 751-3450.