YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea - October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Garrison Family Advocacy Program has scheduled events and activities to increase that community awareness and to strengthen family relationships.

"Domestic Violence Prevention Month is an essential part of prevention," said Paula Moore, USAG-Yongsan Family Advocacy Program manager. "It enables us to spotlight a pervasive tragedy that is present in every community worldwide. Domestic violence affects not only our military families, but impacts mission readiness and effectiveness of Soldiers in the field. It is important that as a community we work to put an end to domestic violence."

Family Advocacy offers programs designed to promote healthy families and relationships, such as specialized seminars and play groups. This year, programs target the family dynamic, Moore said.

"We are promoting family togetherness and healthy family rituals such as family game night, reading to your children, and the importance of family dinner," she said. "It is amazing what spending 15 quality minutes with your child daily can do for their behavior, development and self."

Here's a look at the month's activities:

Couples classes: These two-hour seminars target couples who want to strengthen their relationships. In "Five Love Languages, learn the five languages that will help you express heartfelt commitment to your mate and enhance communication within your relationship 6-8 p.m., Oct. 14, Army Community Service Classroom 2. In "Marriage Garden," learn skills for building and maintaining communication with commitment for soon-to-be or newly married couples 6-8 p.m. Oct. 22, ACS Hannam Village classroom; 6-8 p.m., Oct. 29, Yongsan ACS Classroom 2.

Play groups: Family Advocacy sponsors free weekly play groups for children 6 weeks to 4 years old. For complete details, call 738-6810. Play Works: 10-11:30 a.m., Tuesdays, Hannam Village ACS Outreach Center. Wee Play: 10-11:30 a.m., Wednesdays, Yongsan's School Age Services, Bldg 4211. K-16 Pee Wee Play: 10-11:30 a.m., Mondays, K-Kottage, Bldg. T248.

Child find screenings: 10-11:30 a.m., Oct. 20, K-16 K-Kottage; Oct. 21, 10-11:30 a.m., ACS Hannam Village Outreach Center; 10-11:30 a.m., Oct. 22, SAS Bldg 4211.

Breast Feeding Support Group: Every second Tuesday of the month at Hannam Village Chapel, 10 a.m.

Anger Management for Children: Learn how to manage your anger without getting into trouble. 3:30-4:30 p.m., Oct. 21, SAS Bldg 4211.

Treasure Hunt: The Treasure Hunt will be held during the Fall Festival Saturday. Check-in is at the Family Advocacy booth. For information call 738-8861.

Stress and Anger Management Class: 2-3:30 p.m., Oct. 15, ACS Classroom 2.

Domestic Abuse 5-K Run: 8 a.m., Oct. 18, Collier Field House.

Domestic Abuse Candlelight Vigil: 6-8 p.m., Oct. 25, at the courtyard next to the USAG-Yongsan Fire Station.