Every year, more than 100 women and men seek counselling from Woolwich Community Services Family Violence Prevention Program.
That startling statistic shows that family violence can happen everywhere, even in a quiet rural setting like Woolwich Township.
“Whether you are in an urban setting in downtown Toronto, or in a rural centre, it does happen,” said Don Harloff, executive director of Woolwich Community Services. “There are people who experience poverty, and there are people who experience violence. That’s why our programs exist.”
The Family Violence Prevention Program is the brainchild of Jeanne Renault, former director of Elmira Child Care Centre, who saw the need for a program to deal with family violence.
“She saw the need in the community and that there was nothing here,” said Harloff. “When there is nothing in the township, no service here, and no identity, then (people think) it’s not a real issue. In fact, it did need to be here. We’ve proven it, over and over again.”
It is fitting, then, that one of the biggest fundraisers for the Family Violence Prevention Program — the Jeanne Renault Golf Classic — was named after the visionary who saw the need for such a program.
The tournament runs on Aug. 12 at the Conestoga Golf & Country Club. Now in its 16th year, it is a major source of funding for the program — which does not receive any government money for its education component, an integral part of its program.
Educator Libby Barrie visits every school in Woolwich and Wellesley townships — both in the public and separate school system — three times a year, bringing messages to each grade level about what is, and what is not, an appropriate relationship.
For kindergarten children, it could be as simple as learning to share and express their feelings, without resorting to pushing or hitting.
For older children in Grade 8, it’s about what is safe and appropriate behaviour in a dating relationship.
“They are taught how to play together, and how to date together,” said Harloff. “We can stop behaviour before it starts, and change behaviour before it becomes ingrained.”
There are still spots open for the one-day tournament. A registration fee of $125 will get 18 holes of golf, a golf cart, a catered dinner, and prizes from the prize table.
In addition, added Harloff, it’s a pretty enjoyable day.
“It’s a fun event,” said Harloff. “It’s pretty relaxed, and not competitive. It’s a great day, for a great cause.”
Sponsors are also welcome.
For more information about the tournament, or to register, call 519-669-5139.