SAVE

SAVE, short for Safe Alternatives to Violent Environments, seeks to strengthen every individual and family by providing resources to break the cycle of intimate partner violence and build healthier lives.

SAVE was founded in 1976 where a group of Tri-Cities women provided support to victims of domestic violence. At the time there were no shelters to help victims; therefore, SAVE’s approach was to educate police officers and medical personnel about domestic violence. The group expanded and started providing housing and awareness programs for individuals. Since then, SAVE has served more than 1,000 individuals yearly.

SAVE offers programs for all ages, including but not limited to COPS (Community Oriented Prevention Services), walk-in services for immediate assistance, and a Safe House for women and children fleeing abuse. Youth services includes protection presentations at school; the Strong Than You Think campaign, which helps young people end relationship abuse; and the Symbiosis Youth Summit, where young individuals attend workshops on healthy relationships, dating violence prevention and more.

Due to the pandemic, SAVE’s service has been limited to online suppport; however, it is still in operation. SAVE clinicians offer virtual support groups with one-on-one counseling sessions. Meanwhile, a 24-hour hotline remains open for anyone experiencing domestic violence.

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