Auburn’s Karate Northwest is getting its kicks helping others.

Instructor Leo Porros and staff held a women’s self-defense seminar last Saturday to benefit the Auburn Food Bank. The seminar drew a record 34 participants.

Women learned how to recognize and avoid dangerous situations and were given invaluable skills in dealing with violent physical confrontation.

Proceeds went to the food bank to assist women and children in abusive living environments.

Training available

Auburn Victim Support Team (VST) is taking applications for the next Victim Support Team volunteer training. The Victim Support Team is a project bringing community and police together, to support victims/survivors of domestic violence in the critical time following a 911 call and police response.

Interested applicants are encouraged to attend an open house to ask questions and hear more about what this program is all about on Saturday, March 19 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at the Auburn Justice Center, 340 E. Main St. Deadline to apply is April 1.

VST volunteers help victims with their immediate shelter needs, talk with victims about what’s next in the criminal justice process, and help victims connect to the resources that are available to stay safe.

For more information on the VST or to register to attend the open house, call 253-261-6536 or e-mail dvadvocate@auburnwa.gov.