Del Rio Girls Learn Self-Defense at Workshop Hosted by
BCFS Health and Human Services
In observance of February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, BCFS Health and Human Services in Del Rio hosted 15 middle and high school aged girls at a self-defense workshop on Taijutsu (Japanese for “body technique”) on Friday, February 12.
In addition to teaching Taijutsu, the workshop taught the young ladies how to prevent a dangerous situation, good decision-making skills when in trouble, and how to react in a life-threatening situation.
Watch a short VIDEO of the girls from the workshop
- GET OFFLINE! (Dodge the attack)
- BREAK STRUCTURE! (Strike against force)
- TAKE BALANCE (Know proper technique when falling or being pushed)
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 1.5 million high school students in the United States experience physical abuse from a dating partner. The self-defense workshop offered skills and information for young women to be prepared if ever in dangerous circumstances.
“It’s a sad reality that, in certain circumstances, it can be dangerous for a young lady to be alone ― walking to her car late at night, or walking down the street can make you exposed and vulnerable,” said BCFS Director Delia Ramos. “We enjoy partnering with local experts in self-defense to equip our youth to handle themselves, no matter what they may come their way.”
The workshop was led by Hector Cruz Jr., a healthcare professional with experience in Warrior Fitness, Tai Chi and the martial arts. Special thanks goes to the Ramada Inn Del Rio for providing the classroom, Mr. Cruz for his time and instruction, and the Del Rio Community Spotlight for helping to invite young ladies to the workshop. BCFS case managers Selina Andrade-Jaramillo and Claudia Lopez organized the event. Both serve as family advocates for victims in the Del Rio Domestic Violence Program.
Throughout Val Verde County, BCFS Health and Human Services operates programs to serve those in need, including free counseling and crisis interviention through the Services to At Risk Youth (STAR) program, and domestic violence treatment and prevention through the the Del Rio Domestic Violence (DRDV) program.
BCFS’ Domestic Violence Hotline is available around-the-clock at (830) 768-2755.
For more information about BCFS’ work in Del Rio, or to get help for someone in an abusive relationship, visit DiscoverBCFS.net/DelRio or call (830) 768-2755
