Today we're launching a new 4-part Ask Ava series highlighting different types of abuse besides physical violence. In this episode, special guest Jessica Fernandez talks about the warning signs of financial abuse - when someone gains power and control over...
Topic: Dating Violence
Domestic Violence Is a Life and Death Issue, Even When There Are No Bruises
Each October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month invites us to reflect on the realities of abuse and the lives it impacts. But reflection alone is not enough. We must confront the ways domestic violence is often minimized in public discourse, treated...
Ask Ava, Ep. 265: “How can teens protect themselves against dating abuse when they start dating?”
Before dating, it can be helpful to identify your goals for relationship and feel confident in your right to make your own choices, set boundaries, and give or deny consent. Along with learning the red flags of abusive relationships, these...
Ask Ava Ep 264 “How to set boundaries without being mean?”
Setting boundaries is a form of self-love; creating safety for YOU is not mean to someone else. Special guest Jessica Fernandez joins us to talk about how setting boundaries can be an act of healing and empowerment! If you or...
When Leaders Minimize Domestic Violence, Survivors Pay the Price
By Michele Boronkas, CEO of Safe + Sound Somerset When the President of the United States publicly questions whether “a little fight with the wife at home” can be considered a crime, it sends a chilling message—not just to survivors...
Ask Ava, Ep. 263: “How can I help my friend in an abusive relationship?”
It's important to show your friend you believe them and support their decisions with care and concern, not with judgement. Join us as special guest Jessica Fernandez shares how her friends helped her through a difficult time. To speak with...
Ask Ava, Ep. 262: “How can I tell my current partner about my past sexual assault?”
You deserve to be believed and to not be blamed for the sexual assault. Let your partner know how you need them to listen and support you, and give them space for their own reaction as well. Safe+Sound Somerset is...
Ask Ava, Ep. 260: “What are the impacts of teen dating violence?”
Experiencing teen dating violence can have devasting impacts on individuals and whole communities. Join us as we talk about some of the effects of teen dating violence AND flip the script to talk about the positive impacts of healthy, safe...
Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act of 2025 Advocacy Toolkit
CVFSA Advocacy Toolkit Summary The Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act of 2025 (CVFSA) (H.R.909/S.1892) will help stave off devastating Victims of Crime Act cuts and give sexual assault and domestic violence programs the resources they need to stay open....
Ask Ava, Ep. 259: “What are some red flags of abuse besides physical violence?”
Red flag behaviors are actions that someone else uses to take away or violate your right to make your own decisions, set boundaries, and give consent. Special guest Jessica Fernandez joins Ask Ava to share some of her personal experiences...
