Message from the Executive Director
photo by Glenn Livermore
Since 1982, the Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center has been committed to ending domestic violence through
advocacy, prevention and social justice work. We define domestic violence as a public health issue that
is only preventable when a coordinated community response is set in action. Staff and volunteers partner
with social service agencies, law enforcement, hospitals, schools and businesses in order to form a safe
haven in which local adults and children can overcome endangerment and fear as they move toward safety
and independence.
Many years ago, the leadership at the Crisis Center made bold decisions to invest in services that
provide deep change rather than to invest in temporary solutions. We have been committed to creating
services that reflect our philosophy and values. How are we able to do that?
- By increasing victim safety and perpetrator accountability by advocating for change within the justice system.
- By providing services and resources that are research-based, effective,
victim-centered and collaborative.
- By hiring trained professionals with advanced degrees (lawyers and therapists) to increase the
likelihood that victims will have the resources they need available under one roof.
Examples of Success
Victim Services
In response to a steadily increasing rate of demand,
the Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center helps a greater number of victims,
many of whom arrive with very complex issues, and help them in more meaningful ways.
During last fiscal year 911 adults and 76 children from our communities received 7,296 services.
We offer a 24-hour confidential crisis hotline, safety planning, counseling, children’s trauma
intervention, court advocacy, legal representation, economic independence programming, self-esteem
workshops, and referrals. We continue to modify and expand programs to maximize their impact and help
address newly identified needs.
Coordinated Community Response
We have long advocated for a cultural change that will promote the safety of victims in their own
neighborhoods, and thereby minimize their need to leave their communities. Significant progress
toward this goal has been accomplished in Greater Newburyport, where a multi-disciplinary
High Risk Case Response Team led by the Crisis Center meets
to share timely information, strategize on individual high risk cases, monitor offenders, and promote
public safety.
Innovation and Leadership
The Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center’s programming has garnered recognition and praise:
- Our High Risk Case Response model received the Champions in Action award from NECN and Citizens Bank;
received the National Network Against Domestic Violence Spirit of Advocacy Award;
was highlighted by Governor Patrick Deval as a promising practice.
- The Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center has presented the High Risk Case Response Team model at
national and statewide conferences.
- Created Girls Inc. of the Seacoast Area which will operate as a program
of the Crisis Center and “inspire all girls to be strong, smart and bold”.
- Presented our Harry Potter program at a conference on youth. This program uses the story of
Harry Potter to help children who have been impacted by abuse.
We could not have achieved what we have without your support. Volunteers
contribute over 11,000 hours per year to help fellow community members live safely;
donors invest their money and services to help keep this organization strong.
Suzanne Dubus
To learn more about Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center's Executive Director, watch this Boldfacers video. |
