I have been receiving services from Respond since I found myself in a domestic violence dispute a year ago. My ex-boyfriend verbally abused me, put financial conditions on me and controlled me in a variety of other ways. I went to the police station to get a restraining order and they told me about Respond. The police officer suggested I call so I could receive support and possibly shelter because as I was told, “they see this situation all the time.” Respond was a private and safe place. My advocate knew the mental games my boyfriend was playing to trigger me, break me down and make me it difficult to keep a job or any appointments. My advocate went to court with me, showed me the process and sat there with me until I got my first Restraining Order. From there, I went to a support group and I enjoyed one on one counseling. In group, I connected with other survivors in abusive situations from different backgrounds and social classes. They and my advocate have taught me that Abuse is Abuse. Today, I am just getting back to school. I can thank Respond for being free of my abusive relationship after 8 years of suffering and abuse.