Turning Point educates the local community about domestic violence in several different ways. Here is an overview of our community education programs.
Community Outreach
Turning Point provides training programs on domestic violence to our local community in Lehigh and Northampton Counties. We organize and implement specific trainings for businesses, service groups, police officers, clergy, and other social service agency staff. A display of place settings for those murdered by violent partners (called Empty Place at the Table) is available to public and private businesses, schools, etc. to foster awareness. In addition, each year, we organize a Candlelight Vigil to remember the victims and celebrate the survivors of domestic violence.
Prevention Program
Prevention Educators present programs to middle and high schools in Lehigh and Northampton Counties. The prevention team presents a family violence workshop for middle school students. Students view a video, discuss the issue of domestic violence and engage in role-play situations. High school and college students are presented with a dating violence program that includes a video, discussion of the issues surrounding domestic violence and the cycle of violence, and engage in interactive role-plays. A follow-up healthy relationship program is offered to high school students upon request.
Medical Advocacy Project
The Medical Advocacy Project acts as a resource to the area health care community in working toward the elimination of domestic violence. The Medical Advocacy Project is a collaboration between Turning Point and various physician’s offices, hospitals, and health care systems throughout the Lehigh Valley. A program is offered to train medical professionals to routinely screen, promote safety, document, and refer patients in an appropriate manner, always remember that the safety of the patient must be the primary concern.
