Are  you a woman who's been emotionally or physically abused by a current or former intimate partner? The free "Women’s Empowerment Project" (WEP) series of classes can help you break that cycle. Sponsored by Clackamas County Community Corrections, WEP is designed for women who were in abusive relationships in the past, or who are thinking about ending a current one. Classes are free and open to all women in Clackamas County. Evening classes begin Aug. 5 and Sept. 15 starting at 6:30 p.m. Topics include: the cycle of violence, coping mechanisms, effects of abuse on children, risk assessments, safety planning, non-violent communication and self-esteem. About 85% of domestic violence victims are women. Abusers hurt their victims economically, emotionally, verbally and sexually. They usually control their violence carefully, ensuring their behavior is kept out of the public eye. If you or someone you know is interested in the WEP workshops, please contact Patricia Barrera, Victim Services Program Coordinator patriciabar@co.clackamas.or.us or call 503-655-8776. For more information click here.