Bullying and domestic violence continue to be a serious and all-encompassing issue in Cochrane and the surrounding area. Largely, we are a bedroom community of families that are separated during the day, with both parents working in Calgary and children attending school in Cochrane, being “latch key kids”. There are many diverse cultures here that cover the spectrum from differences in socio-economic status and nationality to religion and value systems.

The costs associated with domestic violence and bullying are escalating in terms of financial values but also in terms of social costs with regard to self esteem, personal safety, overall well-being and academic confidence.

The Cochrane P.A.T.C.H.work Committee  (Promoting Action Towards Community Harmony) emerged to coordinate, re-energize, re-engage and revitalize community stakeholders. By accepting that aggression is at the heart of all bullying and violence, the CPC is able to seize opportunities to prevent and counter many forms of aggression.

Vision

Partner with community members and stakeholders to create a peaceful community free from violence and bullying.

Mission

Through collaboration and partnership we will raise awareness and strengthen our community’s capacity to prevent and resist all forms of interpersonal violence and abuse.

Core Beliefs

• Education and raising awareness is vital to the creation of a healthy, caring culture in Cochrane and the surrounding area.
• Collaboration with all community stakeholders is essential in maintaining a seamless continuum of services that will ensure equitable access for all individuals.
• All elements of the community must be included such that every age, socio economic difference, life stage and cultural difference are considered.
• In order to enhance capacity of service providers and the community at large on-going learning and reinforcement of best practices is paramount.

Community activities and programs that we are supporting, promoting and/or delivering include:  

Healthy Relationships Program

Take Back the Night Walk
Pink Shirt Day
Lunch & Learns
Facilitating Community Conferences around the issues of Domestic Violence and Bullying
Ongoing Public Service announcements through all forms of media