LAURINBURG — On Thursday, the Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Center of Scotland County graduated its first group of participants from a new educational program geared towards helping victims of domestic violence rebuild their lives by offering essential tools for reaching self-sufficiency.

The program addresses such things as job readiness, how to fill out applications, resume building, successful interviewing skills, financial literacy, healthy lifestyles, and continuing education. The course is organized and conducted by Dorothy Ellerbe, the center’s Educational Program Manager.

Thursday’s graduation ceremony included certificates, balloons and a pizza party courtesy of Papa Johns in Laurinburg.

The center offers this free course to anyone who has experienced violence in their home or relationship and has had difficulty transitioning to independence and self-sufficiency. The classes are held each Tuesday and Thursday from 2 p.m until 6 p.m., and participants must complete 8 classes in order to receive their certificates.

For information or to register, call Beth Taylor at 910-276-5505.

Staff report