Voices
If you are a survivor of domestic violence, we want to hear your voice.
Essex County VOICES Chapter provides support to survivors of family violence. The goal is to educate the public about family violence and bring awareness about resources. Essex County VOICES Chapter seeks to break the silence that enables abusers and to empower survivors to take a stand by finding their voice.
What kind of volunteer we're looking for:
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18 years and older
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A survivor of domestic violence who's ready to support others
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Be at least 1 year out of the relationship that caused harm
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Someone who's reliable with a creative spirit
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills
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Someone who is comfortable speaking and connecting with others
Our VOICES at Work
The Essex County VOICES Chapter has been very active in 2024! VOICES is a national network of survivors of domestic abuse with a very dynamic chapter here in Newark. You may have seen members of our Chapter at community fairs and awareness raising events held throughout the county. The Essex County VOICES Chapter is coordinated by Daniel Francois, Health and Outreach Coordinator of the Essex County Family Justice Center. In March 2024, three members shared their experiences of survival, hope, and empowerment at the 3rd Annual Essex County Domestic Violence Summit, held at Rutgers Newark Law School. The Summit was presented by the New Jersey Superior Court-Family Division, Center for Justice Innovation, and the Essex County Family Justice Center.
In April 2024, VOICES members were invited guests at the annual New Jersey Family Court Judges’ Conference. Two members again shared their stories for an audience of judges at a session titled "Survivor Experiences with Intimate Partner Violence", which was facilitated by the Honorable David Katz, Presiding Judge, Family Court, Essex County.
Since 2016, the mission of the Essex County VOICES Chapter has been to educate and raise awareness about domestic violence in our community. We could not do the work we do without them!
Left to Right: Hon. David B. Katz, Presiding Judge, Family Division, Essex County, New Jersey.
Cleopatra Grant, VOICES member.
Takesha James, VOICES member and ECFJC Trustee; and
Danielle Francois, VOICES Coordinator, Essex County VOICES Chapter