As the nonprofit organization Turning Point observes October as National Domestic Violence Awareness month, organizers want to invite you to join them today (Friday, Oct. 5) for a Picnic on the Porch. The picnic will take place from 11 this morning till about 1 in the afternoon. Just go to 330 Barks Road west if you want to take part. Throughout the month, advocates in communities across the country are planning observances to mourn the lives lost to domestic violence while also celebrating the progress made in raising awareness and saving lives. Turning Point’s executive director Paula Roller notes that the tough economy has contributed toward making domestic violence worse in a number of cases and also has left survivors with fewer options to escape. It’s estimated that one in four women will be the victim of domestic violence at some time in her life, and on average, three women are killed every day at the hands of a current or former intimate partner. If you would like more information on Turning Point, you can call 382-8988 or visit the Web site, turningpoint6.org