On November 25, Stephanie MacLean, Status of Women Minister invited Albertans to join her 16 Days, 16 Ways campaign against gender based violence.

Until December 10, Status of Women will be sharing actions meant to empower Albertans on social media.

Caren Anderson, Counseling Services Supervisor with Community Links, said that gender based violence is on the rise in Airdrie.

"Over the past probably two years we've definitely seen a significant increase in the number of instances of intimate partner violence, partly due to the economic downturn for sure. We know that it doesn't cause the violence, but it does add stress to already stressful situations."

Anderson said that there are plenty of resources for victims of gender based violence in Airdrie. Community Links offers support groups and individual counseling.

"There are resources out there, you can always contact Community Links, you can always contact Victim Services, Airdrie RCMP if there's concerns for safety."

November is Family Violence Prevention Month, and the theme this year is 'Reach Out, Speak Out.'