Anyone who dares to mess with these ladies should expect a whack in the face.

On Saturday, 35 women from around the area learned how to strike and kick their way to safety as part of a special self-defense seminar at Young Brothers Tae Kwon-Do studio in Cranberry.

Each participant at the event made a donation to the Victim Outreach Intervention Center, an Evans City-based nonprofit that provides free services to victims of rape, sexual assault and other crimes.

Audrey Gavula, head instructor for Young Brothers, said the seminar raised $400 for VOICe. Gavula said the studio chose to raise money for the nonprofit because Saturday’s class taught women how to defend themselves from abuse, including sexual attacks.

This is third year in a row the studio has conducted a benefit for the nonprofit.

“We just thought VOICe would be the best cause,” Gavula said.

Headmaster instructor Eric Gavula taught the women basic strikes and kicks. Gavula said the women also learned defense strategies for 10 dangerous situations, including having an attacker choke, grab or pull them.  

“It’s a nice small group where everyone can walk away learning something from it,” she said of the class.

Although Saturday’s seminar already was booked, Gavula said there was particular interest in the self-defense class after the rapes that took place earlier in January in Ross Township and Hopewell Township. Police have since charged North Side resident Arthur Henderson with the attacks.

Because of continued interest, Gavula said Young Brothers might offer an additional self-defense class in another month. Like Saturday’s class, the event would benefit VOICe.  

“We’ll always donate our proceeds to VOICe,” Gavula said. “I think it’s such a good thing to do. “

For more information about Young Brothers Tae Kwon Do, including how to schedule a self-defense seminar for your group or organization, visit www.youngbrotherstkd.com or call 724-772-0009. For more information on VOICe or to make a donation, visit www.voiceforvictims.com.