By Daily Press staff
Rosie’s Girls Santa Monica learned about domestic violence last week. On Aug. 9 they had a question and answer talk with Sojourn outreach manager Liz Jones on the signs and solutions regarding disrespect, verbal abuse and physical violence.
Rosie’s Girls is based on a national program designed to build self-esteem, leadership and physical confidence in middle schools girls. The lecture was part of a three-week intensive summer camp in which the 28 adolescent girls experience city maintenance by learning and applying skills in carpentry, welding, fire-fighting and other technical trades.
While the 6-year-old camp is fee-based, 50 percent of the girls are on scholarships supported by foundation and donation grants.
Sojourn — providing shelter, support groups, counseling, legal assistance and 24-hour hotline services for more than 3,000 battered women and children on the Westside each year — sends Jones into the community to familiarize various groups with what can be done when faced with various forms of aggressive behavior, abuse or domestic violence.
“Today I learned that there is no excuse for abuse,” said Chloe Roberts, 11. “Don’t let an abuser stay in your life,” said Nicolle Daghighian, 12. “Be more careful in relationships,” said Arielle Kronovet, 10. Rosie’s Girls are returning the favor to Sojourn by building three large planters that they will donate and install in Adams House, the second stage shelter that accommodates battered women and children for three-to-six month periods.
“People of all ages can be a part of preventing domestic violence and supporting victims,” said Jones. “Another way to get involved is to become a volunteer. Sojourn’s next volunteer training starts Sept. 19.”
Sojourn, one of OPCC’s (formerly Ocean Park Community Center’s) 10 projects, runs California’s second oldest battered women’s shelter. For more information, call Sojourn’s 24-hour hotline at (310) 264-6644 or OPCC at (310) 264-6646 and visit www.opcc.net. Chukkers for children
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on August 17, 2006. Read the original PDF.