Family of Ellenville (a chapter of Family of Woodstock) has begun regular meetings for the EVOLVE program in Ellenville. EVOLVE is a way for individuals to learn how to manage their tendency to violence and find healthier ways of expressing anger and frustration.

EVOLVE groups are led by male and female facilitators, and begin with a recognition that human violence is a corrosive force that can destroy families and ruin home life.

“We provide a safe space where violent people can come and explore and reflect on those tendencies and behaviors,” explains Program Director Andrea Rodriguez. And doing this amongst a group of their peers brings the power of a group to it and can help them see things that they missed before."

The goal is to learn ways to show feelings and express fear other than through anger. Key to that ability are skills and habits like feeling that you can ask for help. The program teaches new ways of thinking and relating to other people and how to reject stereotyped expectations. Individuals are also meant to learn to take responsibility for their actions and develop patience and compassion.

"This is very serious stuff and deals with a real problem,” says Rodriguez. “So, it requires commitment. There are thirty-three sessions in the course and some people don't like that [many]. But people have to be accountable in order to grow."

People can join EVOLVE in several ways, including mandate by a judge, a probation officer, or Child Protective Services.

The group in Ellenville meets on Mondays from 6pm to 7:30 pm. Anyone seeking help with this issue should contact Andrea Rodriguez at (845) 331-7080 ext. 124. Before being allowed to participate in the program, applicants will need to show up for an intake interview at 31 Albany Avenue in Kingston or 221 Canal Street in Ellenville.

And you can volunteer.