Moderated by Colleen Williams, Co-Anchor for NBC 4 News at 5 p.m. and 11 p.m., this free community event will feature a panel of domestic violence experts who will discuss how to strengthen the safety net for victims. Scheduled speakers include:

•  Debi Biederman-Ash, MS, Marriage and Family Therapist
•  Patti Giggans, Executive Director of Peace Over Violence
•  Ava Rose, LCSW, Director of NCJW/LA Women Helping Women ~ Community Counseling & Support Services
•  Robin Sax, Legal Analyst and Commentator, victim’s rights advocate, author, and former prosecutor
•  Terra Slavin, DV Lead Staff Attorney, Legal Services, for L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center

According to Rose, volunteers for Women Helping Women’s Counseling Talkline spoke to an average of more than 15 community members per month in 2011 about domestic violence and provided them with support and resources. During several of the months, there were nearly 25 domestic violence-related calls. “These data reflect a sustained and growing need in our community, even as the resources to prevent and respond to that need shrink due to the economic downturn,” she notes. “To face this challenge, it is essential that we raise awareness and strengthen the safety net for victims of domestic violence.”
 
The program will begin promptly at noon. Light refreshments will be served. 

About the National Council of Jewish Women, Los Angeles Section
The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. NCJW’s Los Angeles section has been at the forefront of social change for more than a century by providing the community with programs and services. Today, NCJW/LA serves more than 15,000 individuals each year by providing over 220,000 hours of programs and services with the support of 400 volunteers.

For more information on the NCJW Los Angeles Section, visit www.ncjwla.org, call 323-651-2930, fax 323-651-5348, or write NCJW/LA, 543 N. Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90036.