March is recognized as National Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the often-overlooked contributions women have made to American history, culture, and society. Each year also features a unique theme for Women’s History Month, with 2025’s theme being Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations. Here at REACH, we wanted to build off the ‘Inspiring Generations’ part of this year’s theme by remembering the…
*In honor of National Homelessness Awareness Month, members of REACH’s residential advocacy team collaborated on the following blog post which brings attention to the clear yet often overlooked link between homelessness and domestic violence. As we observe National Homelessness Awareness Month, it’s important to reflect on the lives of the countless individuals who have experienced homelessness due to circumstances beyond their control. One of the most…
Deborah Heimel and Amarely Gutiérrez Oliver at REACH’s 2024 ‘Reach for the Stars’ fundraising gala. After nearly 20 years at REACH, our Associate Executive Director Deborah Heimel is moving on to continue the values-based work which has made her such an invaluable part of our ongoing mission to support domestic violence survivors. We’re sad to see her go, but we also know she’ll shine bright in…
*Written by Marion Davis, a long-serving member of REACH’s Board of Directors. One of the most common questions domestic violence survivors face is: “Why didn’t you leave?” The answers are as complex as life itself, but the main reason is often simple. Where would they go? For every survivor who has a mom, sibling or friend they can move in with, many more have no viable…
*Written by Maggie Mieczkowski, former REACH intern and student at Hamilton College As I reflect on my time at REACH Beyond Domestic Violence, I am struck by the profound impact it has had on me personally and professionally. When I first discovered REACH, I was moved by the stories of courageous women and resilient children facing unimaginable challenges. I remember questioning my own ability to help…
If someone in your life has been subjected to domestic violence (also known as domestic abuse or intimate partner violence), it can be hard to figure out how best to support them. Do you keep your distance and give them space? Do you put in extra effort to stay close in case they don’t want to be alone? Do you try and ask them about their…
*Written by Molly Pistrang-Gomes, a former Youth Education Program Manager at REACH What does it mean to belong to myself and live a life that brings me joy? Last month, I had the honor to speak at Kathy Brophy’s retirement party on behalf of REACH Beyond Domestic Violence. Kathy is an educator for the Wellesley Public Schools who has worked with REACH over the span of…
In addition to being Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, February is Black History Month. Roxanne T., a former volunteer and now a member of REACH’s shelter staff, shares her thoughts on the significance of Black History Month and working in the field of domestic violence. It’s not every day that you encounter spaces that allow individuals the ability to feel heard. When I started volunteering…
I returned to work in January after being on parental leave and kept asking myself “what is my role? Who am I?” I was balancing responsibilities, roles, and identities in a way I had never known. As the Youth Education Program Manager at REACH, I work directly with young people and support adults who work with, interact with, or care for young people- folks in…
January is Stalking Awareness Month. And while we might think of stalking as something that happens to actors or pop singers, it often plays a role in domestic violence or intimate partner relationships. According to The Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center, “40% of stalking victims are stalked by current or former intimate partners.” Melody’s Story Melody* is a survivor who’s been working with REACH for…
