The Women’s Center of East Texas Hosts 3rd Annual “Too Close To Home” Conference on October 14

Longview, TX — The Women’s Center of East Texas, in collaboration with several local agencies, will host the 3rd annual Too Close To Home: Uniting Against Violence conference on Tuesday, October 14, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Maude Cobb Convention Center. This free, community-wide event is held in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Partnering organizations include The Martin House Children’s Advocacy Center, Greater Longview United Way, Buckner Children & Family Services, Rotary Club of Longview, and Zonta Club of Longview.

“October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, so we feel the timing is perfect,” said Hollie Bruce, CEO of The Women’s Center. “We had over 450 attendees last year and expect even greater turnout this year. Whether we’ve experienced domestic or sexual violence ourselves or know someone who has, we recognize how deeply these forms of abuse affect our entire community. Our goal is to offer a full day of learning and empowerment for all. Thanks to our sponsors, no one is excluded due to registration costs.”

The conference will feature nationally renowned speakers, keynote presentations, and breakout sessions. Attendees can enjoy coffee and continental breakfast during the 8:00–9:00 AM check-in and networking hour. Lunch will be available for purchase from local food trucks.

Continuing education units (CEUs) will be offered for professionals in mental health, social work, education, law enforcement, first response, and legal fields.

Founded in 1978, The Women’s Center of East Texas serves survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking across Gregg, Harrison, Marion, Panola, Rusk, and Upshur counties. In the past year alone, the Center provided face-to-face services to 1,293 adults and 201 children affected by domestic violence. According to the Texas Advocacy Project, 1 in 3 Texans will experience some form of domestic violence in their lifetime.

A 24/7 crisis hotline is available at 1-800-441-5555 to support survivors.

To register or learn more about the conference, visit www.tooclosetohomeetx.com