10. Educate yourself. Read as much as you can about what domestic violence is, how it affects victims while it is ongoing and, if they escape, after they are away from the abuser. Learn how you can help if someone you know who lives in a violent environment.

9. Learn the signs of domestic violence: in adults, children and animals.

8. Advocate for domestic violence awareness programming in your schools (and not just high schools).

7. Work with local organizations such as New Hope For Women or Elder Abuse Institute of Maine to create awareness within your community.

6. Write letters to the editor, or start a conversation on your blog or on Facebook encouraging others to take a no tolerance stance against domestic violence.

5. Donate an old cell phone for domestic violence survivors to New Hope For Women (NHFW) or The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (a downloadable mailing label is on its site).

4. Volunteer for an organization. For example, NHFW holds training sessions for individuals responding to its Help Hotline number. One such session is coming up in October or November.

3. Display purple lights, the official color designated for domestic violence, in your home and place of employment. Ask local police departments, hospitals, clinics, schools, churches, etc., to do the same.

2. Make a donation to domestic violence prevention and advocacy groups that serve your area.

1. Attend or hold an event during the month of October to raise awareness about domestic violence. Here is one such event that took place at Wiscasset High School.