"In the 1970s and '80s, Mainers created regional resource centers around the needs in their  communities, recognizing their local cultures and specificities. Thanks to our members, we can recognize the nuance in experiences across the state and stand united with and for survivors at the same time. It’s a much more effective approach than one-size fits all ever could be." – Regina  Rooney, programming director at the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence

Just as survivors are unique, so are the areas of our state. New Hope Midcoast is one of eight regional Domestic Violence Resource Centers (DVRC) in Maine. Alongside Her Safety Net, a culturally specific service provider, these centers form the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Abuse (MCEDV). Each DVRC serves distinct counties and populations, ensuring comprehensive services across Maine.

MCEDV supports its members to operate from the same essential philosophy, with a commitment to a survivor-centered approach and an empowerment-based model. We believe victims know what is best for themselves and their families, even during challenging and disruptive times. We share resources to ensure accountability, move blame from victim to abuser and address forms of abuse ranging from physical abuse to less well-known financial and emotional abuse. Sharing ideas and perspectives with our colleagues enhances our understanding of what survivors experience and allows us to gather information that guides our current and future programming.

Like all oppressions, abuse is a social justice issue affecting and taxing individuals and systems. Families, friends, neighbors, employers, healthcare providers, law enforcement and courts all feel the effects. Factors like racial and economic injustice, substance use and poverty further complicate the issue. That is why we work hard to prepare all sectors of our community to respond to abuse. Advocates participate in comprehensive trainings developed by MCEDV that also extend outward to include programs for medical and child welfare professionals, employers, mental health professionals and law enforcement. Trainings offered across regions ensure we use a standardized approach coupled with flexibility to serve Maine’s unique rural and immigrant populations.

MCEDV also compiles and analyzes data, and serves as a pass-through agency, directing a portion of the grant funding they secure to New Hope and other resource centers. Evaluating data helps DVRCs work effectively and with a full view of what is happening throughout the state. We can assess our collective impact, better represent victim needs and programming to state and federal agencies, align services with regionally specific needs, and enhance access to client resources. Accepting pass-through funds also means we are bound by strict laws regarding client confidentiality and must adhere to consistent protocols for delivering efficient, quality services.

We want survivors to know they are not alone. Similarly, each DVRC and each advocate is not alone. Leaders from MCEDV’s membership gather regularly to discuss specialized topics, share information, exchange ideas about best practices and solve problems. Advocates surround one another with support. This work can be challenging; nevertheless, we remain committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive in their home and community.

Our annual Speaker Series in late September is an example of our collaborative work. With support from MCEDV, Margaret Groban, adjunct faculty at the University of Maine School of Law, will give a presentation on red flag laws. We invite readers to this free talk on Sept. 29 in Rockland or Sept. 30 in Boothbay. More information and appreciated pre-registration are available under News and Events at newhopemidcoast.org.

New Hope Midcoast is one of Maine’s regional Domestic Violence Resource Centers and a member of the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence. The nonprofit organization supports people impacted by domestic abuse, dating violence and stalking through housing and legal advocacy, education and prevention programs and a 24/7 helpline. The survivor-led organization serves Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox and Waldo counties.