Thursday marks the first day of October and the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

This year, Denver is honoring the month with multiple displays around the city and advertised support programs for victims of domestic violence.

One in four women and one in seven men have been victims of severe physical violence by a partner, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

“Having conversations about domestic violence is vital to ending it,” Denver Mayor Michael Hancock said in a release Thursday.

One of Denver’s leading domestic violence support centers is the Rose Andom Center, which provides a comprehensive approach to assisting victims that doesn’t have to involve law enforcement.

Margaret Abrams, director of the Rose Andom Center, said the impact of COVID-19 has increased the risk of isolation and violence for many domestic violence victims.

“Shining a light on domestic violence is critically important this year,” Abrams said. “We hope the community joins us in raising awareness about this important issue and sharing that the Rose Andom Center is here to help support and connect families impacted by domestic violence with services.”

The Rose Andom Center provides resources such as guidance on domestic violence laws, protection orders, financial support, housing and separation plans. The services can be provided anonymously.

This month, the Denver Police Department is also highlighting its Domestic Violence Prevention Program, which aims to identify and provide abusers with support such as mental health resources.

“Preventing domestic violence is a priority of the Denver Police Department and it is vital to connect potential violators with resources and options to stop abuse before it happens,” Denver Police Chief Paul Pazen said.

Early studies have found that families of police officers experience domestic violence at rates two to four times that of the general population.

Domestic violence is notoriously underpenalized among police officers. A New York Times investigation found 28% of officers accused of domestic violence were still working in the same agency a year later, compared to 7% of those accused of theft.

In an announcement Thursday, Denver police said it will share information about victim assistance and the dangers of domestic violence on its Facebook page throughout the month.

“By having a dedicated (domestic violence) team, we continue to help victims and potential violators, while arresting those who are causing harm,” Pazen said.

The city will also honor Domestic Violence Awareness Month by illuminating multiple buildings in purple light to bring public attention to the issue.

The City and County Building will be lit from Oct. 1-7, the Pepsi Center on Oct. 2 and Empower Field at Mile High from Oct. 1-7.

“If you are experiencing domestic violence, please know that you are not alone,” Hancock said. “We are here for you.”