For Immediate Release: 3/12/08

Naples, FL – The Education Committee of the Guild for the Shelter for Abused Women & Children will host the second installment of the 2008 Purple Bag Lecture Series, Elder Abuse Hurts Us All, on Tuesday, April 22, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Collier County Public Library, Naples Branch, 650 Central Avenue, Naples.

Shelter Elder Abuse Advocate Vickijo Letchworth will discuss the unique aspects of intimate partner violence and abuse of older individuals while exploring how societal norms, stereotypes and stigmas, as well as health issues, such as declining physical or mental capabilities, impact how victims are both perceived and treated when they do disclose the abuse or neglect.

According to Letchworth, “Up to two million elders are abused, neglected or mistreated by the very individuals who are supposed to care for and protect them, something we find unacceptable.” The Shelter’s Elder Abuse Response program is funded by The Brookdale Foundation/Ramapo Trust.

Designed to raise awareness about domestic violence; educate the community on breaking the cycle of abuse; and provide resources to women, children and men victims of domestic violence, as well as those who care for them, the Purple Bag Lecture Series is organized by the Education Committee of the Shelter’s Guild and underwritten by Jerry Wachowicz, Realtor.

Individuals are asked to bring a friend. Coffee, cookies and presentation provided by the Guild Education Committee. Seating is limited, for more information and to reserve a spot, please call 643-0136.

For more information on the Shelter for Abused Women & Children, the nonprofit organization’s programs and services, please call 239-775-3862, or visit www.naplesshelter.org

###

The Shelter for Abused Women & Children helps adult and child victims and survivors of domestic violence through safety, intervention and support; educates the public about domestic violence; and advocates for social change against domestic violence. For more information, please contact us at 239-775-3862, or visit us online at: www.naplesshelter.org

Media Contact: Mary Ann T. Green, mgreen@naplesshelter.org, 239-775-3862, ext. 211