About DVS

Domestic Violence Services of Benton & Franklin Counties (DVS) began on November 1, 2003, following the demise of the previous service provider.  DVS is comprised of caring and dedicated individuals – focused on providing the best advocacy and support services for domestic violence victims in our community.

The board, staff and volunteers are committed to building first-rate client services and expanding to meet the needs of victims and survivors.  DVS provides a wide array of services including 24-hour crisis line and emergency shelter, information and referrals, legal advocacy and clinics, support groups, advocacy based counseling, and community education.

As the only domestic violence program in the bi-county area, DVS serves as a local information and referral center for victims and survivors, friends and family members, the general public, and the media.  In a community plagued with alarmingly high rates of domestic violence related homicides, the leadership of DVS is critical.

Domestic violence is a crime with often devastating effects on its victims, involving the use of power, control, and manipulation over others.  DVS continues to develop and promote innovative programs to address these issues; while partnering with other community agencies to ensure our clients needs are met and our non-profit dollars are spent wisely.

DVS is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that receives funding from state contracts and grants, private grants, and community donations.  In 2006, 89% of funds supported program work and client services, and 11% supported administrative costs.

2008-2009 Board of Directors

Executive Committee:

Sandi Strawn, Chair
Alysia Johnson, Treasurer
Tom Mitchell, Secretary
Officers:
Peggy Lemak Lori Cook
Josie Delvin Maggie Covarrubias

Staff

Executive Director Kelly Abken
Program Director Erinn Gailey
Shelter Manager Samantha Sharer
Office Coordinator Brooke
Legal Advocate Kate
Bi-Lingual Legal Advocate Maria
Bi-Lingual Legal Advocate Esmeralda
CSO Advocate Julie
Bi-lingual Shelter Advocate Isabel
Children’s Advocate Megan
Bi-lingual Shelter Advocate Pattrisha