Sonja
Darai, Director of the Commission, is very excited to have the new
co-chairs as part of the SWC. "I've enjoyed working with both Nancy and
Correen. We have an energetic group of commissioners who are setting a
very active schedule of activities and programming. Its quite
exciting."

Guests of the family owned restaurant, were treated
to live music by the Knuckledusters and were also able to meet the
Women's Commission members. "I've been involved with SWC for less than
a year, but I'm very excited, and I think we're going to bring a lot of
energy, ideas and really help get the SWC more exposure to the
community" said Correen Demers.

The mixer also raised money for
the SWC programs including TADA, Teens Against Dating Abuse, at
Somerville High School. A youth inspired program, TADA has just
finished its sixth year. "The goal is to take an often silent problem,
and give it a powerful voice in the high school. Students can join and
learn about what dating violence is, what to do, and how to help
others. Funding is important, with more money we can grow this program
so we can have assemblies and educate more students," said Sonja. TADA
has a very flexible approach to educating students by always trying
different methods to reach students. Peer-to-peer teaching is an
important aspect of the program as students can present the information
they learned in TADA during health classes.

The Somerville
Women's Commission is a citizen group, dedicated to enriching women's
lives by advocating for equality in all facets including education,
health and politics working closely with local agencies and law
enforcement. Comprised entirely of volunteers, the Commissioners are
appointed by the mayor for three-year terms. To become involved with
the Somerville Women's Commission attend one of the meetings held every
third Wednesday of the Month at 7 p.m. at the City Hall Annex.