Our Mission
Educate, Support, Empower.
The Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County (DVRCSC) is a nonprofit agency that works toward a future free of violence, and to build a community in which each individual shares the responsibility to create a culture of safety and personal dignity for all.
We work collaboratively to offer safety, support, advocacy, education and a network of services to the residents of Washington County. DVRCSC is dedicated to both preventing and responding to domestic violence by working to change the social conditions, beliefs, and social actions that perpetuate abuse.
“I have no idea what I would be doing right now if I hadn’t left the relationship and come here.”
A DVRC Client
Our History
It started at a kitchen table
In 1978, a group of young mothers met around a kitchen table to explore women’s issues in their community. With no paid staff and no equipment, they opened the Battered Women’s Project in the annex of the Hope Valley Baptist Church. Their first budget totaled $183.79, most of it for telephone service. From the very start, the focus was the work that remains our core today: referrals, support, legal advocacy, a helpline, and safe housing.
Back then, women fleeing abuse were hosted with families during emergencies. Since then, DVRC has grown, purchased and renovated property, expanded its staff and volunteers, added services, and built proactive education to help prevent abuse.
Founded as the Women’s Resource Center of Wood River, opening the Battered Women’s Project on a $183.79 budget.
The Safe Home was purchased and renovated.
The Drop-In Center at 61 Main Street in Wakefield was purchased.
Renamed the Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County to reflect everyone we serve, including the roughly one-third of clients who are men.
In recent years, reduced state and federal grants have meant carrying on this work with far less staff and far more fundraising. The community has responded, and continues to support the work and vision of this agency.
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone.
Our advocates are here to listen, support, and help you explore your options.