The speaker will discuss the importance of having this conversation now, while sharing some of her own experience. She will identify some of the statistics (reported cases, non-reported cases, hospitalizations, deaths, affected children) and what research shows would be a huge step to stop domestic violence before it starts – looking at Mental Health and resilience, stable and positive parenting. The speaker will review what warning signs indicate a possible abusive relationship; why someone being victimized by domestic violence finds it difficult or impossible to leave, and what you can do to be part of the solution.
Speaker: **Maria Fitzpatrick
**Moderator: Mary Shillington
Maria was born and raised in St. John’s, NL. She attended Memorial University of Newfoundland pursuing a conjoint degree in Education and Physical Education. She is a mother, grandmother and a great-grandmother. Maria has worked all across Canada as well as in the United States for 45 years. She has been a teacher, recreation supervisor, coach, Parole Officer, Policy Analyst and Regional Executive Vice-President of her union. She was the MLA for Lethbridge East in the from 2015-2019. In addition to volunteering with several community groups, in June she was appointed the Advocacy Program Officer with the National Association of Federal Retirees for southern Alberta. Maria is well versed on this topic having survived being victimized for 9 years by her first husband.
Date/time: Thursday November 24, 2022. Presentation begins at 12 & concludes at 1 p.m.
Cost: Free, but donations are gratefully accepted
Location**:** Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO) Dining Room, 500-11 Street S, Lethbridge, AB
Lunch & Refreshments: The Atrium Dining Room will be available by 11:15 am. Please arrive early before the start of the Presentation to patronize the LSCO cafeteria and enjoy their excellent variety of good value food options.