Domestic violence is an issue that affects every community.

The YWCA Mohawk Valley is getting ready to raise awareness of the issue in October, which is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

They're hosting a few events including:

• Reclaiming Freedom Celebration: October 20 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Valentino's Banquet Hall.

• Take Back the Night:

       - Utica Take Back the Night: October 16 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at YWCA MV Office, 7 Rutger Park

       - Rome Take Back the Night: October 18 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Rome City Hall, 198 North Washington Street

They're also participating in the Purple Ribbon Campaign to raise money for their domestic violence programs.

"It's important that people know that we're here. Our support group and our therapists are for all women, men, and children that have experienced this, and again, confidential. You don't have to be in any of our other programs to have the benefits of those programs," said YWCA Mohawk Valley CEO Dianne Stancato.

YWCA Mohawk Valley has a free, confidential Oneida County domestic violence hotline that's available 24 hours a day. The number is (315) 797-7740.

The Herkimer Sexual Violence Services Hotline is (315) 866 -4120.