Westchester County Office for Women Hosts Empower Hour
The Westchester County Office for Women (OFW) held its second webinar of the Empower Hour series featuring OFW Acting Director Catherine Borgia and guest, Patti Reyes D’Agostino, Chief of Development and Community Relations of Hope’s Door. They shared a candid and, at times, deeply personal discussion about how to best support someone close to you who the victim of domestic violence or in a dangerous relationship. The conversation touched on different approaches based on whether the victim has disclosed the abuse, as well as how the closeness of the supporter’s relationship with the victim impacts the approach. The dialog also focused on how to spot the warning signs that indicate someone is in trouble, and concluded with a two-part Q & A, responding to many pertinent questions from the attendees.
Borgia said: “Thank you so much to Patti D’Agostino for both sharing her experiences and for providing such useful and complete information about how to support a friend who might be a victim of domestic abuse. This conversation was both compelling and informative. We want everyone to know how to help someone you know, and the resources to access help should you need it. Remember, you are not alone. We are here to assist with compassion and confidentiality.”
D’Agostino said: “There is only one person who has something to gain from silence and that’s the abuser. Sharing stories and conversations, like the one today, make us aware that domestic violence knows no economic, social or racial boundaries. Its very existence changes not only those directly affected by it like children and other family members, but every member of the community.”
For resources and to reach the Office for Women, call:White Plains Office weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (914) 995-5972, in Spanish, (914) 995-6581, after hours and weekends, (914) 995-2099 or go to www.WestchesterCountyNY.gov./women
Empower Hour is presented by the Westchester County Office for Women as part of our commitment to supporting, educating and uplifting women across Westchester County.
Watch the Webinar Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PA-arKV-iGM