YWCA to raise domestic violence awareness
Classes targeted at youths are designed to break the cycle of domestic violence.GLENDALE -- The Glendale YWCA is taking part in a pilot program designed to educate children and teens about domestic violence and break the cycle of violence.

A 6-foot-4-inch statue of an angel will serve as the symbol of the program's goal of domestic and community peace.

Officials announced the new educational program, which will be held in conjunction with the EduCare Foundation, at an event to unveil the statue Wednesday night at Universal CityWalk.

The statue, Angel of the Now, was created by domestic violence survivor Genice Grace, who painted the first brush strokes on the angel at the Glendale YWCA's May 22 Annual Legacy Luncheon.

The angel will be the focal point for fund-raising events across the country.

Proceeds will benefit the Glendale YWCA's shelters and help fund a series of educational programs and events scheduled to begin in October at the YWCA. The classes will focus on teaching children and teens how to take responsibility for themselves and to resolve conflict.

"The only way to stop domestic violence is to break that cycle and teach children," said Wayne Page, interim executive director for the Glendale YWCA. "These kids are witnessing this, and they do what they see. We've got to stop the violence."

The program also will focus on educating teachers about how to bring a more "heart-centered" approach into the classroom, organizers said.

The statue is part of the city of Los Angeles' "A Community of Angels" art exhibit and will travel across the country, including a stop at the Glendale YWCA in September.

Sponsors, including Academy Award winner Susan Sarandon, author Dan Millman and musician Jon Bon Jovi, will personalize inlaid tiles on the angel's wings.

For more information about the program or to support the Angel of the Now, call Annie Van Bebber at 242-4155, ext. 236.


http://www.latimes.com/tcn/glendale/...a02sep02.story