Lighting the way to a safer place

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Denise Nevins
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Throughout the month of October, the Family Advocacy Program recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month, with this year's theme being "Light in the Window."

"The purpose of [DV Awareness Month] is to raise public awareness of the importance of abuse prevention, early identification, victim safety and protection, and coordinate treatment and intervention for all affected family members," said Christle Usera, 28th Medical Group Family Advocacy intervention specialist.

For this year's campaign, Family Advocacy gave candles to base leadership, including commanders and first sergeants, Oct. 1. The candles, which are to remain lit throughout the month, are placed in either a window or on a desk in the hopes of generating conversation.

"The 'Light in the Window' campaign represents personal commitment to fostering respectful relationships, Ellsworth having a unified stance to end domestic violence and hope that we are lighting the way to peace," Usera said.

Usera added each candle has a note from a variety of victims from the Working Against Violence, Inc. shelter in Rapid City.

In addition to recognizing DV Awareness Month, Family Advocacy provides briefings to commanders and first sergeants year-round.

"We define maltreatment in both children and adults and the warning signs to look out for," said Kimberly Kohler, 28th MDG FAP manager. "We also explain how to help a victim if they were to come across one, the process they need to go through, and the resources available."

Family Advocacy also offers many resources for victims of domestic violence, including psychoeducational classes to learn more about healthy relationships and other classes and programs to help couples gain skills for a healthy relationship.

"Strength-based treatment is available for individuals, couples and families that are struggling within their relationships in the hopes to prevent further problematic issues or behaviors," Usera said.

Along with the "Light in the Window" campaign, a Walk for your Cause, coordinated by the Health and Wellness Center, and the first annual Purple Ribbon Luncheon are other scheduled events.

"Family Advocacy recognizes domestic violence is a difficult subject to talk about, though it is a reality in our society," Usera said. "Our hope is that these candles will generate conversation and let victims know they are supported at Ellsworth."