First Step: A Response to Domestic Violence

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Harrisonburg, VA
First Step: A Response to Domestic Violence

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First Step is a non-profit agency dedicated to empowering survivors of domestic violence through support and education. Abuse is not always physical.

Threats of violence, destruction of property and/or pets, name calling, humiliating you in front of family and friends, putting you down – all of these things are abuse. Abuse is not caused by alcohol. It is not caused by stress. Abuse happens when one person seeks to hold power over another. At First Step we believe that nobody should have to live with violence or the threat of violence in their lives. All of First Step's services are free and confidential. They include:

• Hotline and Crisis Intervention Services •
A member of First Step staff is on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

• Shelter •
We offer shelter to all persons fleeing from domestic violence situations regardless of gender. We also accept homeless women and children depending on space.

• Support Group •
Our support group meets every Monday from 5:00- 6:00. We welcome members of the community to come and participate in our support group.

• Legal Advocacy •
Many victims find going through the legal process to be a frightening and overwhelming experience. While we are not attorneys and can’t offer legal counsel, First Step’s Victim Advocate can accompany you to offer moral support and help to create a safe space around you as you go through the process to obtain a Protective Order and/or pressing criminal charges.

• Children's Services and Referrals •
We offer referrals for counseling for both children and adults who have been victimized.

• Case Management Services •
We offer case management services to assist our clients as they transition into an abuse free life.

• Teen Dating Violence •
We offer resources and support for teens who are involved in unhealthy or abusive relationships. Additional information about teen dating violence can be found on our website at www.firststepva.com.

10/28/2026

As we continue recognizing Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we’re highlighting the dedicated individuals at First Step who provide support, compassion, and resources to survivors in our community.

Today, we’re introducing Brendaly, First Step’s Domestic Violence Counselor 💜

Through individual counseling and weekly support groups, Brendaly helps survivors navigate their healing journeys, rebuild self-esteem, establish healthy boundaries, and recognize their own strengths.

Join us in recognizing Brendaly and the important role counseling plays in supporting survivors as they move forward.

10/17/2026

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and we're continuing our series highlighting the dedicated advocates who support survivors in our community.

Meet Lorrie, First Step's Legal Advocate 💜

Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, especially for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Lorrie helps survivors understand their rights and legal options, providing guidance, court accompaniment, and support throughout the legal process.

We're grateful for Lorrie and the important work she does to help survivors feel informed, supported, and empowered to make decisions that are right for them. 💜

10/16/2026

We're continuing to recognize and thank the wonderful sponsors who helped make this year's Glamp Out possible! 💜

We are so grateful for your partnership and for standing alongside us in making a meaningful difference.

Thank you for being part of Glamp Out 2026!

Wildly Rooted Counseling
Vision Technology Aesthetics
Erik and Sarah Sutt
Reagan Eshleman
Park View Federal Credit Union
Avening Tech

10/15/2026

We're continuing to celebrate the incredible sponsors who supported this year's Glamp Out! 💜

Your kindness and commitment to our mission mean so much, and we're grateful to have you by our side.

Valley Family Support Services
MOD Displays
Larson Wealth Management
Green Valley Auctions

LD&B Insurance
4 Hands 8 Paws

10/12/2026

We're hiring! 💜

First Step is looking for two dedicated individuals to join our team as Child & Youth Advocate and Advocate.

If you're passionate about supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence and making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families in our community, we encourage you to apply.

Join us in creating a safer, more supportive community for those who need it most.

Learn more about these opportunities and how to apply: https://www.firststepva.com/employment-opportunities

10/09/2026

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 💜

Throughout the month, we'll be highlighting First Step's services and the dedicated staff and advocates who work every day to support survivors in our community.

For survivors of domestic and sexual violence - access to safe and stable housing is an essential part of rebuilding their lives.

At First Step, our Housing Advocate, Kelsey, helps survivors navigate housing searches, connect with available resources, and take steps toward securing a safe place to call home.

Join us this month as we continue recognize the people and services that make First Step's mission possible. 💜

10/02/2026

Our October Wish List is here 💜

This month, First Step is especially in need of household cleaning products, canned fruits and vegetables, new or gently used children’s costumes in all sizes, diapers and pull-ups (size 5+), assorted holiday candy, and more.

Your donations help us continue providing everyday essentials and support to the individuals and families we serve.

View our full October Wish List here: https://www.firststepva.com/current-needs

To coordinate a donation drop-off, please call 540-434-0295.

10/01/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s Glamp Out. 💜 It was a wonderful evening of community and generosity, and we’re so grateful to everyone who helped make the night a success.

To our guests, volunteers, and sponsors who made this event possible - thank you for showing up for First Step and the individuals and families we serve. Your support helps us continue providing safety, resources, and care to survivors of domestic violence in our community.

We’re already looking forward to what next year has in store. Thank you for being part of it. 💜

09/25/2026

A special thank-you to our incredible Glampout sponsors! 💜

Your generosity and commitment to First Step are helping bring this special event to life. More importantly, your support helps us continue providing safety, hope, and essential resources to survivors of domestic violence in our community.

We are incredibly grateful to have you standing alongside us and making a meaningful difference!

White Oak Lavender Farm & The Purple WOLF Tasting Room

06/08/2026

Urgent Shelter Need: Women's Sneakers & Walking Shoes 👟

We currently have a client in shelter who is in immediate need of women's size 10 wide sneakers or walking shoes. We are also accepting donations of women's adult sneakers and walking shoes in sizes 7–12, including half sizes, medium widths, and wide widths.

New or gently used shoes are greatly appreciated.

If you'd like to donate, you may drop off shoes at First Step or coordinate a donation by:
📧 Emailing us at [email protected]
📞 Calling our 24-hour hotline at 540-434-0295

Address

129 Franklin Street
Harrisonburg, VA
22801

Telephone

+15404340295

Website

http://firststepva.com/

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