This October, National Domestic Violence Awareness Month has given us timely opportunity to reflect on domestic violence.

Each year political officials from President Barack Obama to Mayor Michael Nutter recognize the severity of domestic violence in our community. Even still, it is extremely challenging to reinvigorate interest and attention toward this issue. News coverage has been largely silent because year to year we are confronted with similar, if appalling, statistics.

Science and technology can't provide an instant, news-inspiring fix for domestic violence. Awareness and education, on the other hand, can help us take enormous strides in the struggle to prevent and reduce domestic abuse.

This is why we need you! Anyone can be an effective agent in enacting bystander intervention strategies in domestic violence prevention, which is what we ask of you through iPledge. Anyone can spread the word about the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline (1-866-723-3014), a vital 24/7 resource for anyone with questions or concerns about domestic violence, and portal to local domestic violence resources, including WAA's emergency shelter.

Anyone can learn more about domestic violence to keep false stereotypes and harmful judgments at bay to create an environment in which victims do not feel marginalized, ashamed or desperately alone, to the point where they feel unable to seek help.

Don't let these efforts stall as October comes to a close. We need renewed support for the women and children in our city who struggle each day with abuse. Please consider participating in these steps to help keep their voices alive and strong.