Strength Through the Season: How Winter Weather Increases the Vulnerability of Domestic Violence Survivors
Winter in New England brings quiet streets, early sunsets, and biting cold. For survivors of domestic violence, the season can bring heightened risks that often go unseen. At RESPOND, our advocates hear the same worry every year as temperatures drop: “I don’t know where to go.” “I don’t want to put my kids through another......
Giving Thanks, Giving Back
Thanksgiving is almost here, and at RESPOND, we’re thinking about all the ways people show up for survivors, sometimes in ways you can see, and sometimes in ways you can’t. Some of our favorite examples? A turkey donation so a family in shelter can sit down to a warm meal. A small, hand-knit baby blanket......
Moving Forward Looks Different for Everyone (and how RESPOND counselors walk beside you)
At RESPOND, we know that life after abuse is complicated. It can bring relief, sadness, hope, and confusion sometimes all at once. There’s no single way to move forward, and the path rarely feels linear. Many survivors describe feeling waves of emotions: relief, sadness, hope, confusion, and everything in between. This range of emotions isn’t......
Why We Do This Work: Reflections from RESPOND staff
We asked RESPOND staff members to tell us why they do the work they do. Their answers reminded us that behind every program, every call, and every shelter stay, are people who care deeply, and who bring heart, skill, and dedication to every survivor they support. “I do this work because I love seeing our......
Why Sponsorships Matter Now More Than Ever for Small Nonprofits
At RESPOND, we often talk about how every gift makes a difference. And it truly does. But when it comes to major fundraising events like our Gala, sponsorships can be the difference between a modest net profit and a transformational one. For small nonprofits, sponsorships are so much more than a logo on a program......
The Role of the Board: Dedicated Leaders Driving Change
When people think of nonprofit leadership, many picture the board of directors—but what that board actually does can be a mystery. Who are they? Why are they there? And what do they do? The truth is, a board’s role looks different in every organization. It often depends on the needs of the CEO and the......
Domestic Violence in the Digital Age: The Rise of Tech-Enabled Abuse
According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, 97% of U.S. domestic violence programs report that survivors have experienced abuse involving technology. Tech-enabled abuse refers to the use of technology to exert power, control, and intimidation over someone. As technology becomes more advanced and accessible for more people, abusers can have more ways of......
The Ripple Effect: Inspiring the Next Generation of Givers
Behind every contribution lies a ripple effect that changes lives, strengthens communities, and creates lasting impact. At RESPOND, we see this every day. One donation can help survivors find safety, a family rebuild their future, and an entire community grow stronger. Yet, across the country, giving is declining, especially among younger generations. According to Giving......
A Letter to Those Experiencing Secondary Trauma
To the supporter who can’t shake a survivor’s story at the end of the day. To the friend or family member who’s supporting someone through an abusive relationship. To the teacher who suspects something is wrong at home but doesn’t know what to do. To the counselor, housing specialist, shelter volunteer, or intern — this......
Pride Month: Empowering LGBTQ+ Survivors and Creating Safe Spaces
At RESPOND, we believe everyone deserves to live free from violence—no matter who they are or who they love. This Pride Month, we celebrate the strength of the LGBTQIA+ community and reaffirm our commitment to creating safe, affirming spaces for all survivors. The Reality: LGBTQIA+ Communities and Domestic Violence While domestic violence affects people of......