Domestic Violence & the Workplace Seminar Scheduled

The South Dakota Network Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault is partnering with the
Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, The Rapid City Police Department, and Working Against Violence, Inc. (WAVI) to present a free seminar on the topic of domestic violence, how it impacts the workplace, and the policies and procedures that employers should have for dealing with potential situations involving violence. The program will be held in Rapid City on Monday, July 14.

"Nearly 15,000 individuals receive services annually at shelters and crisis centers for domestic violence and/or sexual assault crimes in South Dakota," says Krista Heeren-Graber, Director of the South Dakota Network Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault. "Many of the 15,000 are working in our state and the employers may not have any idea what is happening when those employees go home at night. Businesses can provide assistance to the employees, but also have a responsibility to keep everyone safe on the job. Through education and continued awareness, we can make South Dakota a safer place to live."

The South Dakota Retailers Association (SDRA), which has sponsored similar programs in other communities, encourages business owners, managers, supervisors and employees to attend the program.

SDRA Executive Director Shawn Lyons says that domestic violence can have a major impact on the workplace, so it's important for employers to learn more about the issue, and what their role should be.

The seminar will be held from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, July 14 at the RCPOA / FOP Clubhouse at 2500 Golden Eagle Dr. There is no cost to attend.

Pre-registration is requested by calling Rebekkah Kruse at the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office at 394-6115, or by emailing rebekkah.kruse@co.pennington.sd.us .

The presenters at the programs will include a representative from the South Dakota Network Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault, law enforcement personnel who are experienced in dealing with domestic violence issues, an attorney who will address legal issues pertaining to employers, and WAVI (Working Against Violence, Inc.)