Domestic violence is learned and generational. The family of origin acts as the strongest role model for intimate relationships. When violence occurs in the home, it is accepted and family members view violence as a normal part of relationships. Studies show that boys who witness family violence are more likely to batter their female partners as adults than boys raised in nonviolent homes. Girls who witness their mother's abuse have a higher rate of being battered as adults.
Domestic violence puts children at risk.
To end domestic violence we must enlist the efforts of the whole community and many institutions. We cannot achieve our mission without the efforts of everyone in the community, every school, every church, and every neighborhood. In an effort to reach persons affected by domestic violence as early as possible we provide domestic violence training for law enforcement personnel and health care providers. And in reaching children affected we have child therapy, childcare, and children's educational programs. Prevention is given equal priority as intervention.