The Family Counseling Center’s Domestic Violence Program Highlights Area Partnerships
The Domestic Violence Program of Fulton County, a program of The Family Counseling Center, is highlighting area partnerships they have fostered, in order to bring awareness of, and advocacy for, individuals living in unhealthy and unstable relationships.
Domestic Violence is much more than the physical act of violence and consists of coercive, controlling behaviors that can include emotional, verbal, financial, cyber and sexual abuse. Anyone can find themselves in an abusive relationship and Domestic Violence affects individuals from all walks of life regardless of economic status, sexual orientation, or age.
In recent years, the Domestic Violence Program has worked to build solid relationships with area law enforcement agencies, social service partners, schools, and stakeholders. “Our work is focused not only on helping the clients who seek our care. Our partnerships are vital to ensuring a positive impact is made in the lives of many in Fulton County,” said Amanda Anderson, Director of The Domestic Violence Program of Fulton County. “We believe that through our partnerships and education efforts we are focusing on prevention versus intervention. Right now, unfortunately, most of our work is on intervention.”
The Domestic Violence Program’s outreach and education efforts include interactive presentations at area schools, trainings, and more.
Trainings, education, and outreach are also included in the Governor’s budget. The funding will allow for Domestic Violence risk assessment, improve reporting procedures, education focused on stopping the cycles of domestic abuse, and working to increase the ability of District Attorney’s to secure time-sensitive evidence in order to protect victims.
Law Enforcement Trainings
This February, the Domestic Violence Program invited law enforcement representatives from Northville, Dolgeville, Gloversville, Johnstown, and the Fulton County Sherriff’s Office to trainings focused on Domestic Violence. The trainings provided an overview of what Domestic Violence is, what services are offered by the Domestic Violence Program, how to make referrals for service, and more.
A second training will be held April 17, 2024 for the troopers and investigators of NYS Troop G.
“The City of Gloversville Police Department is proud to partner with the Family Counseling Center, and the Domestic Violence Task Force of Fulton County,” said Chief Michael Garavelli of the Gloversville PD. “Year after year, Domestic Violence complaints remain one of the most frequently encountered calls for service to which the City of Gloversville Police Department responds. Domestic Violence, and the effect which it has on individuals within a household, can contribute to a lifetime of negative consequences for those involved. The City of Gloversville Police Department’s relationship with representatives from the Domestic Violence Task Force of Fulton County, permits our Police Officers to direct those effected by Domestic Violence to resources within the community to repair the damage that has been caused.”
Task Force
The Fulton County Domestic Violence Task Force and Sexual Assault Team was recently re-established after a break of nearly five years. The Taskforce is a coalition of agencies and individuals dedicated to promoting the prevention of domestic violence, sexual assault, enhancing victim safety, and holding abusive individuals accountable. All meetings include presentations from outside agencies; for example, March’s Task Force welcomed presenters from the Men’s Batterer’s Intervention Program, a program of Hope House in Troy along with IPH of Albany and CAPTAIN Community Human Services.
“I firmly believe that combating Domestic Violence requires a unified effort,” said Michael Poulin, Fulton County District Attorney. “It is imperative that we work with local agencies and the Domestic Violence Task Force to provide unwavering support to victims. By working collaboratively, we ensure victims have access to the resources and assistance they need to break free from the cycle of abuse and rebuild their lives with dignity and respect.”
April is Crime Victims Awareness Month
April is recognized as Crime Victims Awareness Month and is an opportunity to acknowledge, support, and advocate for those who have been victims of crime. Local agencies including The Domestic Violence of Fulton County, The Family Counseling Center, Planned Parenthood, and the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office will host their annual Crime Victims Awareness Ceremony on Monday, April 22, 2024 at 3 p.m. at the Band Shell in Johnstown (corner of West Main and North Williams Streets).