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According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner physical violence.

On any typical day, there are more than 20,000 phone calls placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide.

Domestic Violence Awareness month is recognized every October and the Davie Center for Violence Prevention is hosting two days of training and education for the community Oct. 24th and 26th from 10 a.m.to 4 p.m. at 132 Government Center Drive.

Mike Mertz will cover topics covering aspects of domestic violence and sexual assault. The same information will be presented on both days.

The event is free and open to the public but registration is required no later than Oct. 10.

Events like this are happening in an effort to bring more awareness to the community and provide resources to those who are victims and survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault.

A task force was formed nearly a year and a half ago comprising of individuals from organizations across the county such as the Sheriff’s Department, Davie Social Services, The Dragonfly House, Davie Health Department and others.

This task force meets quarterly and focuses on bringing awareness about domestic violence and sexual assault to the community. “We are trying to do more outreach and keep the conversation going about it here in the community,” Brandi Patti, assistant director for the Davie Center for Violence Prevention said.

This task force is one example of how organizations within the community are coming together, sharing information and resources and working together to help train and educate on these topics.

“Domestic violence is everywhere,” Patti said. “It’s not just in one Zip Code and it really is a public health issue. This won’t be solved overnight and we can’t do it alone. It really does fall on the community to make an impact and help victims and survivors of domestic violence.”

Whether you’re a staff member or volunteer at one of the organizations who support victims and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence or if you are a community member who is interested in learning more about these topics and broadening your awareness, this event is a great opportunity for you.

If you have any questions about the event or resources for domestic violence and sexual assault victims and survivors, you can contact Brandi Patti at bpatti@daviecountync.gov.