Special Projects

 Our Survivor Round Table discussion aims to give a voice to victims, survivors, and families, allowing them to share their experiences and insights. The focus is on understanding the services they used, their effectiveness, and how law enforcement was involved in their cases. 

Key discussion points include:

• Services Used: Participants shared which services (shelters, counseling, legal aid, etc.) were most helpful and identified gaps in support.
• Effectiveness of Services: We heard personal accounts of the strengths and weaknesses of existing services, highlighting both successful outcomes and areas needing improvement.
• Law Enforcement Involvement: Survivors discussed their interactions with law enforcement, the processes they went through, and how this affected their path to safety.
• Improvement Suggestions: A critical part of the conversation focused on how we, as a community and service providers, can make it easier for victims to leave their aggressors. Suggestions included better access to information, more streamlined services, and improved coordination between support agencies and law enforcement.

This discussion is invaluable in helping us understand how 

we can improve our services and create a safer, more

 supportive environment for victims and survivors. We are committed to using this feedback to enhance our efforts in making it easier for individuals to escape abusive situations.

 Our Heart to Heart Teen Relationship Truths Round Table Discussion Group for teens is a platform for youth to share their personal experiences and observations about how dating violence has impacted them or their friends. The goal was to understand where teens turn for support and how effective these support systems have been.  

Key discussion points include:

• Impact of Teen Dating Violence: Participants openly share how dating violence, whether experienced directly or through friends, has affected their lives. They discuss the emotional, social, and academic consequences they faced.
• Seeking Help: Teens talk about who they turned to for help, including school staff, parents, friends, or other trusted adults. 
  • School Services: The effectiveness of school resources (counselors, teachers, and staff) is discussed.
  • Parental and Peer Support: We highlight the helpfulness and challenges in turning to parents and friends for support.
• Barriers to Seeking Help: Many teens may feel they are unable to turn to anyone for help. Common reasons include fear of not being believed, embarrassment, or concerns about making the situation worse. Also highlighting on trust in available resources or not knowing where to turn.
• Community Improvement Suggestions: A key focus of the discussion is how the community can better support youth experiencing dating violence. Emphasizing on the need for:
  • Greater awareness and education on recognizing and addressing teen dating violence.
  • More accessible, trustworthy resources in schools and the community.
  • A culture of openness and non-judgment to encourage teens to seek help without fear of stigma.

This discussion highlights the need for improved communication, education, and resources to ensure our youth feel supported and safe.  We are committed to taking these insights and working towards a stronger, more trusting support system for teens facing dating violence.