Dear Editor:
Most people think domestic abuse is a personal matter, confined to a victim’s home. While that may be true in some cases, a considerable number of domestic violence victims ride the elevators with us each day and sit next to us at meetings. They are our co-workers and understandably, are affected by their abusive situation on the job.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and a good time to focus on how we, as employers, managers and fellow employees can assist victims in our businesses. You may be aware of some of the effects of domestic violence in the workplace. Often, women receive threatening phone calls at work or unwanted visits by their abuser. Some victims are repeatedly late to work or may call in sick frequently due to serious injuries. Still others may not be able to concentrate on the job because they are preoccupied with what they’ll encounter when they leave work. In fact, according to the Family Violence Prevention Fund (FVPF), 37 percent of domestic violence victims say the abuse impacts their work performance.
Verizon Wireless is a corporate leader in the fight against domestic violence and a longstanding partner with the FVPF’s National Workplace Resource Center on Domestic Violence. The company has established a number of policies and internal programs to help employees recognize the signs of abuse, learn how to approach the situation and help victims piece their lives back together.
In addition, Verizon Wireless uses its technology and resources for the cause. Since 1995, the company has donated or recycled more than 45,000 wireless phones for emergency use in the New York Metro area. This month, the company began offering seminars at women’s shelters in New York and New Jersey to assist residents in their job searches. The seminars cover topics such as interviewing, communications and resume writing.
During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, please consider how you and your company can make a difference in the lives of domestic violence victims. For more information about workplace programs, visit the Family Violence Prevention Fund at www.fvpf.org or call the National Domestic Violence hotline at 800-799-SAFE.
Charles Hand, President
Verizon Wireless
NY/NJ Metro Region