Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence


			FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 19, 2002 CHAMBER PARTNERS WITH COALITION TO HELP EMPLOYERS RESPOND TO FAMILY VIOLENCE Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce members address family violence in the workplace in partnership with Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence (COLUMBUS) - The Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence and the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce are embarking on a massive campaign to educate the Chamber's 3,700 members about the issue of family violence and its impact on the workplace. The campaign will also provide employers the training and tools they need to respond to this issue. "Family violence does not stay home when its victims go to work. In fact, 75 percent of employed victims are harassed on the job by their abusive partners; and it causes employers to lose 175,000 days annually. Additionally, family violence affects victims' productivity, increases absenteeism, raises the risk of violence in the workplace, and results in increased health care costs, " said Coalition Founder and Board Chair Abigail S. Wexner. "With the Coalition's help, the Greater Columbus Chamber will provide a comprehensive program that educates our members about family violence," said Sally A. Jackson, Chamber President and CEO. "Our members will receive awareness materials; have the opportunity to attend a free breakfast briefing; and be invited to a three-hour, hands-on comprehensive training addressing family violence in the workplace." "The goal is to create an environment where victims are comfortable coming forward, and will feel confident that they will receive help rather than being punished," said Limited Brands Vice President and Coalition Business Task Force Chair Al Dietzel. "Employers can ensure that this will be the case if they are trained and know how to respond appropriately." Employers can help by: Training staff, including Ð Employee Assistance Programs, management, human resources and security Developing policies related to leave and benefits, security procedures and confidentiality Displaying resource information such as the phone number for CHOICES, Columbus' local domestic violence organization and shelter The Coalition offers the following services to all employers in Central Ohio: Customized workplace training Best practices information, including policies and procedures to deal with victims and batterers Educational and awareness materials including free posters, videos, brochures and wallet cards to reach out to employees and educate them on this complex issue The Coalition focuses its work on five touch points - where the victim and community institutions intersect - with task forces working to create systemic change. These task forces are: Business Community/Public Education, Faith Community, Health Care, Legal System and Victim Services. Founded in 1998, The Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence is comprised of leaders from businesses and organizations in Central Ohio committed to reforming our systems to stop the cycle of violence in our community. To learn more, call 614-722-5985 or visit out Web site at www.TheColumbusCoalition.org.