When stories of sexual and domestic violence appear in our news feeds, they often focus on the perpetrator, the crime, or the legal consequences. These headlines, while necessary for public awareness, can inadvertently reinforce feelings of isolation among survivors and fail to highlight the pathways to healing and prevention that exist in our community.

In the wake of recent tragedies in our community, one truth stands clear: recognizing the warning signs of domestic violence can literally save lives. At The Compass Center, we regularly hear survivors say, "I wish I had known these were warning signs, not just relationship problems."

In victim services, we often talk about putting on your own oxygen mask first. Yet during times of organizational uncertainty, this fundamental principle becomes both more crucial and more challenging to maintain.