The Community Violence Intervention Center has released a book commemorating its first 40 years as a leading domestic and sexual violence service agency in the region.
The book, titled “Two-Generation Guardians: Peacemakers Changing the Face of Violence – For Good,” was written by Coiya Tompkins, CVIC president and CEO.
It honors people who have been instrumental in shaping CVIC’s prevention and intervention efforts, said Tompkins.
Through the stories of more than 60 partners, donors, clients and employees, the book profiles the agency’s Safer Tomorrows Road Map, which serves as a guide for the CVIC’s mission to end interpersonal violence in two generations.
Since Tompkins accepted the CVIC leadership role in 2019, she has been inspired by the spirit of collaboration in the region, she said in a news release. “I love that ‘community’ is in our name, because it truly was a community effort that got us here.”
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The book “is a must-read for all in our community,” Cecilia Volden, retired UND professor of nursing, said in a letter to the editor published earlier this year in the Herald. “In this book Coiya highlights the contributions of many people who have spearheaded and nurtured this initiative while also explaining the importance and far-reaching possibilities of these efforts.
“Imagine the community of Grand Forks embodying a culture of nonviolence, being a safe place for all,” Volden said.
The “Two-Guardians” book may be purchased for $20 online through www.cviconline.org or at the CVIC office, 211 S. Fourth St., in downtown Grand Forks. Because the book’s publishing costs have been underwritten, all proceeds from the sale of the book are reinvested into the important programs and services transforming lives impacted by violence, Tompkins said.
The CVIC delivers vital safety and healing services to adults and children experiencing trauma and educates youth and professionals about how to prevent violence and develop healthy relationships, Tompkins said.
In 2020, the agency provided support services to nearly 3,000 people and educated more than 7,400 students and adults throughout Grand Forks County, she said.
For more information, contact the CVIC at (701) 746-0405.