JUST BE: A Sanctuary of Survivors of Domestic Violence
A Sanctuary of Survivors of Domestic Violence
At Vital Village OR, we believe that every survivor of domestic violence deserves a moment to breathe, heal, and regain their strength. The Just Be program is a 30-day sanctuary offering women and children a safe, restorative environment where they can begin their journey toward healing. We recognize that escaping domestic violence is more than just leaving—it's about finding peace, rediscovering oneself, and moving forward with hope.
Our Mission
The Just Be program provides a compassionate, calm space for women and children fleeing domestic violence. In a world where survival often takes precedence over healing, Just Be creates an opportunity to pause, reflect, and rebuild. We provide not only safety but also the emotional and practical support necessary to empower survivors and their families to take control of their futures.
Our Services
We offer a holistic array of services designed to meet the immediate and long-term needs of survivors:
Emergency Shelter
We provide safe, confidential accommodations for up to 28 families, offering them a place to stay where they are protected and cared for. Each family is given private space to rest and reflect, while also having access to communal living areas that foster connection and community support.
Counseling Services
On-site professional counselors are available to support survivors in processing trauma, overcoming PTSD, and rebuilding emotional resilience. Through one-on-one therapy sessions and group counseling, our team helps survivors regain their sense of self and emotional stability.
Workshops & Life Skills Training
We offer a variety of workshops aimed at empowering women to rebuild their lives, including sessions on financial literacy, job preparedness, and parenting support. These classes are designed to equip survivors with the practical skills they need to create a sustainable future for themselves and their children.
Legal Advocacy
Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, especially in times of crisis. Our advocates provide assistance with restraining orders, child custody, and other legal matters, ensuring that survivors have the support they need to protect their families and assert their rights.
Children's Programs
The trauma of domestic violence deeply affects children. We provide a safe, nurturing environment where children can engage in play therapy, educational activities, and emotional support sessions, helping them process their experiences in a healthy way.
Peer Support Advocacy
Each mother and child at Just Be is paired with a peer support specialist who guides them through every step of their journey. From their arrival at our sanctuary to their transition into more permanent housing, we are there every step of the way.
Why Just Be Matters
Domestic violence leaves survivors in a state of physical, emotional, and psychological distress. Many existing shelters offer immediate solutions but overwhelm survivors with a multitude of choices and decisions before they are ready. Just Be fills this critical gap by offering survivors the time, space, and supportive environment they need to process their trauma at their own pace.
At Just Be, our goal is not only to provide immediate safety but to nurture hope, resilience, and empowerment. We focus on:
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Providing a calm, restorative environment where women and children can feel safe, seen, and understood.
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Offering emotional support that helps survivors process their trauma and begin healing.
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Equipping survivors with the skills and resources necessary to rebuild their lives.
Our Commitment to the Community
At Just Be, we believe that healing requires a village. We work closely with local organizations, government agencies, and businesses to create a network of support for survivors. By partnering with our community, we ensure that families leaving Just Be are set up for success, whether through job placement, legal assistance, or continued emotional support.
We are especially committed to serving marginalized communities, recognizing the unique barriers they face in accessing safe housing and support. Through financial assistance programs and culturally sensitive services, we ensure that Just Be is accessible to all who need it.
How Can You Support Just Be
Our vision is to create a world free from violence, where women and children can live in safety, dignity, and hope. If you are interested in supporting the Just Be program or learning more about how to get involved, please reach out to us. Together we can help survivors not only survive but thrive.
Send us an email at admin@vitalvillagesor.org.