YWCA plans women’s self-defense class

VW independent/submitted information

The YWCA of Van Wert County will be offering a free one-night self-defense class for women, on Monday, January 25, from 6-8 p.m. The Van Wert Self Defense Team provides the class.

The self-defense classes are designed to teach women how to avoid dangerous situations and what they should do when faced with unavoidable, unsafe circumstances.  Class participants will gain confidence, knowledge, and the skills to protect themselves in this hands-on program.  No experience is necessary.  You are welcome to come, even if you have not attended the basic class.

Class instructors include Rick Busch and Ed Klausing. Busch is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do with many years of experience, including several years of experience teaching martial arts, self-defense, and rape prevention classes and seminars. Klausing is a third degree black belt and also has experience in teaching various martial arts.

Adult participants should be women and girls ages 13 and older and should wear loose-fitting comfortable clothing. Pre-register by calling the YWCA at 419.238.6639.

According to the Department of Justice, one in five teenagers and young women have been a victim of some form of dating violence and almost 189,000 victims of sexual assault and rape annually. Area residents need not become a statistic: learn how to protect one’s self now.

To participate in the self-defense classes pre-register now by calling the YWCA at the above number.  For more information contact Program Director Rebecca Beech at the YWCA number above.

The YWCA is a United Way and Van Wert County Foundation funded agency.