Empower & Protect: Self-Defense Essentials for Women 18-23 Years Old

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Union County Sheriff's Office, is offering free self-defense classes for women ages 18 to 23 as they prepare for college, internships, travel, and increased independence.

The final session is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. An earlier session was held on July 22.

Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek explained the program's purpose. "As young adults head off to college, internships, travel opportunities, and summer jobs, it's important that they feel prepared and confident navigating new environments. These classes are designed to provide practical self-defense skills, increase situational awareness, and help them feel empowered both on campus and in everyday life."

The program, called Empower & Protect: College Bound Self-Defense Essentials for Women, is led by experienced law enforcement professionals. Hands-on sessions focus on practical self-defense techniques, situational awareness, and safety strategies for everyday situations on campus, while traveling, and during social activities.

"Knowing how to recognize and respond to potentially unsafe situations is an important skill, especially for young adults as they prepare for college life, commuting, travel, and greater independence," said Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli. "Our instructors focus on realistic situations and simple techniques that can help participants react quickly and feel more confident in their everyday lives."

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The class is hands-on and involves partnered practice. Participants should wear comfortable workout attire. Shoes will not be permitted on the mats. All participants must complete a waiver to take part in the hands-on portion.

Space is limited, and registration is required. The two sessions are identical, so participants should sign up for only one. The program encourages registering with a friend or family member for added confidence and support.

To register or for more information, visit www.ucnj.org/women. Those with questions can contact Jennifer Erdos at the Union County Office on Women at 908-527-4216 or email Jerdos@ucnj.org.

The July 29 session is the final opportunity to participate in this summer's program.

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FAQ

Q: What is the Empower & Protect self-defense program?
A: Empower & Protect: College Bound Self-Defense Essentials for Women is a free hands-on class led by Union County law enforcement professionals. It teaches practical self-defense techniques, situational awareness, and safety strategies for young women ages 18 to 23.

Q: When is the final session?
A: The final session is Wednesday, July 29, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. An earlier session was held on July 22. The two sessions are identical.

Q: Where is the class held?
A: The class is held at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.

Q: Who should attend?
A: The program is designed for women ages 18 to 23 preparing for college, travel, internships, summer jobs, and increased independence. It covers safety strategies for campus life, commuting, traveling, and social activities.

Q: Do I need a self-defense background to attend?
A: No. The program is designed for young women of all skill levels. Instructors focus on realistic situations and simple techniques that anyone can learn and apply.

Q: How much does the class cost?
A: The class is completely free for all participants.

Q: What should I wear?
A: Wear comfortable workout attire. Shoes are not permitted on the mats, so plan accordingly.

Q: Is registration required?
A: Yes. Space is limited, and registration is required to attend. Register at www.ucnj.org/women.

Q: Can I register with a friend?
A: Yes. The program encourages registering with a friend or family member. The class involves partnered practice, so attending with someone you know may increase comfort and confidence.

Q: Do I need to complete a waiver?
A: Yes. All participants must complete a waiver to participate in the hands-on portion of the class.

Q: How do I register?
A: Visit www.ucnj.org/women to register. For more information or questions, contact Jennifer Erdos at the Union County Office on Women at 908-527-4216 or Jerdos@ucnj.org.