YWCA Darien/Norwalk Launches Week Without Violence Programming

DARIEN, CT — YWCA Darien/Norwalk will launch its annual Week Without Violence later this month, joining YWCAs nationwide in highlighting the issue of domestic violence and supporting survivors.

The weeklong initiative, running Oct. 20–25, is part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It will feature educational workshops, self-defense training and community events aimed at raising awareness and building safer communities.

"Domestic violence touches families in every community, including our own," said Jennifer Buchholz, CEO of YWCA Darien/Norwalk, in a news release. "Week Without Violence is about coming together as neighbors – to learn, to grow, and to stand side by side with survivors. We invite our community to join us in building confidence and gaining practical tools while taking visible action to create a future where women, children, and families can live free from violence."

Week’s Events

• Oct. 21 — Parent Awareness Workshop (Virtual): In partnership with the Domestic Violence Crisis Center, this free session will help parents and caregivers recognize red flags in teen dating and support healthy relationships.
• Oct. 23 — Self-Defense Safety Training: Gloria Marcott, founder and CEO of Soul Punch, will lead a two-hour class designed for women and girls. The session includes awareness and boundary training, hands-on techniques, and trauma-informed instruction.
• Oct. 25 — Illumination Night: Residents and businesses are invited to place Empowerment Lights outside at dusk in support of victims and survivors. Proceeds will fund welcome baskets for families moving into safe housing through the Domestic Violence Crisis Center.

Throughout the week, the YWCA will also share resources, stories and educational material via social media on Instagram and Facebook.

Broader Mission

Proceeds from the events will support year-round YWCA programs that provide direct assistance to survivors and promote empowerment for women and girls.

"Together, every light, every voice, and every action brings us closer to a world where women and families can live free from violence," the organization said in announcing the initiative.

More details, including registration and donation opportunities, are available on the YWCA Darien/Norwalk website.