By Yvonne Manglona for Triton’s Call 

MANGILAO, Guam (Oct. 28, 2015)— Knowing the facts about violence is futile unless people who are affected by it recognize its negative effects, seek protection and assistance for their situation, and empower themselves to transition into a better life.

The University of Guam’s Violence Against Women Protection Program hosted a “Domestic Violence Awareness” campus exhibit from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the student rotunda. The event also featured non-profit service affiliates such as the Victim Advocates Reaching Out, Guam Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Family Violence, ALEE Women’s Shelter, and Healing Hearts.

The organizations set up tri-fold displays on tables, and distributed informational brochures and souvenirs to showcase the array of assistance available for women who seek information and protection against domestic violence and abuse.

“This event is to show people at UOG that domestic violence exists. If you or someone you know is experiencing issues related to domestic and dating violence, there are programs out there that can assist,” said Jean Macalinao, education and training coordinator of VAWPP.

VAWPP is a program designed to assist college students who experience any form of harassment or abuse by equipping them with information and protection training. VAWPP also provides on-campus escorts and counseling. The office is located at the Humanities and Social Sciences building in room 103 and is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

According to GCASAFV, domestic violence is the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a way to stay in power and control committed by one intimate partner against another. Emotional and physical abuse is wrong and increases an individual’s risk of death and crime.

 

“We work together with other programs like VARO, VAWPP, Healing Hearts, and ALEE shelter to help victims and try to make the transition as smooth as possible,” said Gabrielle Wusstig, a GCASAFV worker. GCASAFV assists these non-profit affiliates by offering training, outreach programs, and printing of collateral when needed.

VARO is a non-profit organization that provides free and confidential information and services to individuals and their families who experience any form of domestic violence, abuse, or trauma.

VARO, ALEE shelter, and Healing Hearts also have hotlines available 24/7 by providing emotional support to anyone who needs to talk or who needs help.

“It takes a lot of courage to speak to someone, whether it is you or for your friend,” said Erica Ventura from VARO. “If you really want help and you feel like no one is out there to help you, we are always here.”

The location of VARO is confidential but people can call 477-5552. Other hotlines available are the ALEE Shelter at 648-4673 and Healing Hearts at 647-5351. For emergencies please call 911.

For more information about these organizations visit www.guamservices.org.