NextStep Domestic Violence Project

10/23/2026

The Maine Prosecutors Association and the Maine Association of Victim Witness Advocates wore purple to support domestic violence survivors and their children in Bar Harbor at the Maine Prosecutors Association Annual Conference. We're grateful for their show of support!

10/23/2026

We've had a lot of fun with our Floofy Friday posts. However, we'd like to take some time to talk about the seriousness around what happens with pets when Domestic Violence impacts a home.

Often, pets can be a target of abuse, or can be threatened as a way to control a partner. Many of us cannot fathom leaving a beloved pet behind, for any reason. Unfortunately, this is often the only choice for Survivors of DV, and other times it's the reason someone stays.

We talk a lot about Safety Planning - and we can safety plan with our pets in mind as well. Here are some Safety Planning ideas for pets, and some additional resources that may be helpful.

At NextStep, we know how important pets are to families, especially in tough times. Support Coco's Fund to help cover pet-related expenses for survivors of domestic violence. Donate today at nextstepdvproject.org/donate.

10/22/2026

Thursday Thoughts: Everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and understood. Everyone deserves to feel safe and comfortable in their relationships.

10/21/2026

How can we help raise awareness about Domestic Violence and the impacts it has on those in our community?

We can educate ourselves on what DV actually looks like - the signs and impacts on those experiencing violence.

We can listen to Survivors without judgement, and believe them when they share their experiences.

We can speak up when we hear someone make a joke minimizing violence, or challenge behaviors that normalize abuse when we see them.

We can know which resources are available to help Survivors of Domestic Violence, so we know where to refer others to help when needed.

NextStep is here to help - to support, to safety plan, to listen. If you are experiencing Domestic Violence, or you want to know more about how you can support someone you care about, please reach out to our helpline: 1-800-315-5579. For more information on our services, please visit www.nextstepdvproject.org

10/20/2026

Get ready for an exciting new episode of Relationship Rewind, airing on WERU 89.9 FM tonight!

This month Carrie sits down for a conversation with Survivor, Advocate, and Author Lisa Ortiz, to discuss her experiences, her books, and her Foundation for Survivors, in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

You can tune in from 4:30-5pm on the radio, or by streaming on the WERU app. As a reminder, you can find all of our past episodes on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or on our website at https://www.nextstepdvproject.org/relationshiprewind

10/19/2026

Reaching out for help is scary and difficult. That's why we'd like to take some time to explain how our Helpline works - so we can take some of the Unknown out of the process.

Our Helpline is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
It is the quickest way to speak to an advocate and connect to any of our services. It is free and confidential.

10/16/2026

10/15/2026

10/09/2026

🐾💜 Floofy Friday: Meet Diggs! 💜🐾

This week’s Floofy Friday spotlight is Diggs, a lovable pup who knows exactly how to make his human feel loved. Whether it’s a cozy cuddle, a happy tail wag, or simply being close by, Diggs is a reminder of the comfort and companionship our pets bring into our lives. 🐶💕

At Next Step, we know pets are family. No one should ever have to face a situation where they feel forced to choose between their own safety and the safety of their beloved pet. That’s why Coco’s Fund helps provide resources like food, veterinary care, and other essentials for pets of survivors.

Coco’s Fund is kept alive by our community. Every donation helps make it possible for survivors and their pets to find safety together.

🐾 Help keep pets and their people safe. Donate to Coco’s Fund today:
https://www.nextstepdvproject.org/donate

10/08/2026

Next Step is hiring a Shelter Advocate to join our Washington County team!

The Shelter Advocate provides direct support and advocacy to residents of Next Step’s shelter while helping ensure the safe and effective operation of our residential program in Washington County.

This position works closely with shelter guests throughout their stay, assisting with onboarding and documentation, housing and community resource navigation, personal needs, and life and safety planning. The Shelter Advocate also helps foster a positive communal living environment through house meetings, activities and resources, attention to shelter conditions and supplies, and support with maintaining shared spaces.

This position is a great opportunity for someone who brings compassion, professionalism, strong communication and listening skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

The position also includes helpline coverage, community engagement, documentation, and ongoing training.

To view the full position and find information on how to apply please visit: https://www.nextstepdvproject.org/employment

Please share this post to spread the word!