Conference Welcome!

 

Twelve years ago, in a moment of bravado and resolve, members of ICAN and the Domestic Violence Council decided to bring advocates from the different and often differing fields of child abuse and domestic violence together in a conference we would call “NEXUS”. We had no funds, no precedent, and no assurance that anyone would come. We planned a conference agenda for 200 attendees, hoping to attract 150. The morning of the first “NEXUS” was an eye-opening event, as the hotel staff began moving tables and chairs from other parts of the building to accommodate over 700 people! “NEXUS II” brought more than 800, and the number soon rose to over 1,000. Why?

 

Perhaps because those struggling to help families and children had long realized that child abuse is but one spoke in the destructive wheel of family violence. Because the hundreds of professionals and volunteers working with victims of domestic violence were continually being confronted by the destructive influences of child abuse and neglect. Because any form of violence in the home affects every man, woman and child living there. Last year, nearly 3 million suspected child abuse and neglect reports were received by child welfare agencies in the United States. At least 2,000 children died from abuse inflicted by parents and caretakers and it is estimated that at least 18,000 children are permanently disabled each year from abuse or neglect. It is estimated that child abuse is 15 times more likely to occur in those homes where domestic violence is present, and that between 3 and 10 million children each year witness domestic violence. Boys who witness violence in their homes are significantly more likely, as adults, to become involved in violent and other anti-social behavior. Each year, 2 to 4 million women, including 1 in 4 pregnant women, are victims of domestic violence. Elderly and disabled family members are also vulnerable to family violence, suffering injuries, severe distress and permanent disabilities.

 

We are honored to provide attendees with the opportunity to hear from local, state and national experts about the impact of violence within the home on children and potential solutions. It is hoped that the information presented will continue to inspire participation in efforts to prevent violence in the home, in the community and throughout society.
Conference Welcome!