Domestic violence can begin with small controlling behaviors and escalate into a pattern of power and control that often worsens over time.

Sandra* and her daughter experienced physical and emotional abuse firsthand at home. When Sandra chose to leave, she found refuge for two months at the Family Services emergency domestic violence shelter.

During her stay, our Case Manager helped Sandra secure full-time work, find an apartment with federal rental assistance in a safer neighborhood, and enrolled her daughter in a new school. Thanks to her new financial independence, Sandra also purchased a car, giving her family more reliable transportation.

Each year, about 8,000 reports of domestic abuse are documented in Forsyth County.

Family Services supports individuals and families like Sandra affected by childhood abuse, domestic abuse, sexual assault, human trafficking, and elder abuse, meeting urgent needs with resources, dignity, and hope.

Today, Sandra is embracing her new life. “I’m no longer looking over my shoulder. I feel like I can finally breathe,” she says.

These are the stories of our neighbors, friends, family members, and coworkers. When you register for Walk a Mile Against Domestic Violence, you are helping to raise awareness and critical funds for Family Services to heal our community, protect survivors like Sandra, and create safer futures for us all.

Walk in memory.

Walk in solidarity.