In recognition of October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, DeKalb County Solicitor-General Robert James is calling for all local faith-based organizations to participate in a domestic violence training workshop on Saturday, October 17, beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the Manuel Maloof Auditorium at 1300 Commerce Drive in Decatur.

"We are asking all of DeKalb's faith-based organizations to come out to be empowered and educated about domestic violence," said James. "Each year, my office prosecutes more than 2,500 misdemeanor domestic violence cases. Our goal is to work directly with every aspect of the community and engage them in the process of combating domestic violence."

Faith-based organizations and ministries that are interested in a domestic violence outreach program are encouraged to participate in the 4-hour workshop led by nonprofit leaders, industry experts and domestic violence advocacy groups including: Women's Resource Center, International Women's House and Caminar Latino.

"Our leaders in the faith-based community are an essential part in helping us stem the tide of domestic violence," added James. "My office is excited to join with various faith-based organizations and area nonprofit groups to bring awareness of domestic violence and offer solutions and guidance on a critical community issue."

This event is free and open to DeKalb County's faith-based organizations. Interested ministries and organizations should contact Domestic Violence Deputy Chief LeRoya Chester Jennings at 404-371-2234 by October 9th.