First Step Family Violence Intervention Center

We offer a 24-hour crisis line, legal advocacy, educational services, father mentoring, support groups, individual counseling, residential shelter services, community education and more. Through our crisis line we provide assisstance to an estimated 1,200 clients per year. Phone consultation and counseling provide an invaluable resource for clients who are not readily mobile. First Step staff logs over 200 hrs annually on phone consultations alone. In addition, our psycho-educational classes (PASSAGES) provide individuals and couples with practical tools for dealing with dysfunctional relationships. Families can learn to prevent domestic violence or, if it has already cast its dark shadow, to deal with the effects. Family violence is treatable and it can be stopped.

- Emergency Shelter is available to women and children (including males up to age 18) who find themselves in crisis situations involving domestic violence.

- Legal and Support Advocacy for individuals seeking help in navigating through the legal system and in obtaining civil protection orders. Our advocates are registered in the state of Ohio and can assist in a variety of legal matters.

- PASSAGES classes provide an eight-week, twenty-four session motivational and educational curriculum which complies with our local Court Orders for individuals and households to acquire help with their abusive behaviors. This unique program is offered throughout the year on a cyclical basis, both A.M. and P.M. groups are scheduled. Participants must complete the intake appointment before being admitted into the group.

- OPERATION STARSHINE provides services for children who may have witnessed or experienced abuse and whose parents might be currently involved in a dysfunctional relationship. The program uses the philosophy of PASSAGES and relates it to a children's setting.

- Art Therapy allows clients to express themselves through the visual arts and is administered by a trained art therapist.

- Life Skills training provides clients with the basic information for skills such as financial management, diet, getting and keeping employment, and household management.

- Positive Parenting is a program designed to provide positive skills for parents as they interact with children.

- Individual Counseling is available for people seeking one on one services for issues in their relationships. Couple counseling is also available.

- Women's Support Groups provide a support system for women who wish to share their experiences with other women, or who are looking to connect with other women who might be in similar situations.

- Men's Support Groups provide a support system for men who wish to share their experiences with other men, or who are looking to connect with other men who might be in similar situations.