A Community United Against Domestic Violence

A Community United Against Domestic Violence

Dear SafeHouse Community,

 

One thing has become increasingly clear over the years: no single organization can end domestic violence alone.

 

At SafeHouse of Shelby County, we have the privilege of walking alongside survivors every day. We see their strength, resilience, and determination. We also see the barriers they face as they navigate law enforcement, the courts, healthcare systems, housing, counseling, and countless other services. Those barriers cannot be solved by one agency—they require a coordinated community response.

 

That is why I am so excited to share the work of the Shelby County Domestic Violence Coalition.

 

This coalition brings together professionals, organizations, and community members from across Shelby County who are committed to creating a safer, more supportive community for survivors. We are building partnerships with law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, victim advocates, healthcare providers, counselors, educators, faith leaders, and others who all play a role in responding to domestic violence.

 

Together, we are asking important questions:

• How can we make it easier for survivors to access help?
• How can we improve communication and collaboration between agencies?
• Where are the gaps in our community’s response, and how can we close them?
• How can we educate our community about healthy relationships and domestic violence prevention?
• How can we build sustainable funding to support this work for years to come?

 

Our vision extends far beyond meetings around a conference table. We want to create lasting change in Shelby County—change that makes survivors feel supported, heard, and empowered from the moment they reach out for help.

 

But this coalition is not just for professionals.

 

If you are someone who cares deeply about survivors of domestic violence and wants to be part of improving our community’s response, we invite you to join us. If you are a survivor yourself, your experiences and perspective are invaluable. The voices of those who have lived through domestic violence help us understand what works, what doesn’t, and where we must do better.

 

Meaningful change happens when a community comes together with a shared purpose. Whether you bring professional expertise, lived experience, or simply a desire to make a difference, there is a place for you in this effort.

 

If you would like to learn more about the Shelby County Domestic Violence Coalition or explore ways to become involved, please reach out to Karen Lowther (klowther@safehouse.org), who is serving as chair of the coalition. We would love to have you join us as we work together to create a future where every survivor has access to safety, healing, and justice.

 

Together, we can build a stronger, safer Shelby County.

 

Sincerely,

Janelle Sierra

Executive Director

SafeHouse