The achievements of women and awareness of challenges they still face in modern society are all in mind for many today: it's International Women's Day.

The executive director of the Portage Family Abuse Prevention Centre, Joyce Schrader, interprets the day as a time to celebrate women. The theme of of the day is “be bold for change.” It's a slogan that Schrader feels many can relate to.

“I think women, over the decades, have been very bold and things have changed dramatically in many, many ways,” Schrader says. “We've come forward and continue to strive for more awareness. I think women today should remember that they're wonderful. Let's just celebrate the fact that women are here. They work very hard. They're compassionate. They're caring. They're nurturing.”

“They are the backbone for their families, their spouses and in the services they provide day-in, day-out.”

Schrader deals with women in distressed situations every day in her work with the Portage Family Abuse Prevention Centre.

The one quality Schrader sees in each and every woman: Strength.

“Every day I see women who come here. They are fleeing some form of abuse,” Schrader explains. “They are incredible women. They have had to be so strong, they don't even realize how strong they've been.”

“The strength it takes to try and make some significant changes in their lives. For those thinking about making changes: Be bold for change is a good slogan.”

To mark International Women's Day, the Portage la Prairie Regional Library is contributing proceeds from certain DVD rentals this week to the Portage Family Abuse Centre.

“It's always wonderful when someone in the community shows support for the the work that we do, and shows support for the work that women do,” Schrader adds.