The rates of family violence in Alberta – particularly in this part of Alberta – are shocking. While there are plenty of reasons to love this province, its relatively young demographic combined with a boom-bust economic structure creates the type of environment where the stressors that can trigger domestic abuse seem to thrive. That's why we need to work harder. November is Family Violence Prevention Month across the province, so there's no better time to familiarize yourself with the services we have available right here in Rocky View County. The Western Rocky View Family and Community Resource Centre (403-851-2250) and Cochrane and Area Victim Services (1-800-615-5984) offer resources on the western side of the county, while Airdrie and District Victims Assistance Society (403-945-7290) and North Rocky View Community Links provide support to residents in the northern and eastern areas. Take part in local events happening this month to learn more about what family violence looks like and how it impacts individuals and communities – and what you can do to help keep Albertan families safe. You can also show your desire to make a difference by wearing purple throughout the month, and by talking about family violence on social media using the hashtags #ReachOutSpeakOut and #GoPurpleAB. While there's not much we can do to actually stop family violence from occurring in someone else's home, it's time for us to show survivors we're here to help them escape it.
