This March, we’re honoring the remarkable strength, boundless compassion, and unshakable dedication of the inspiring women who empower survivors every day at My Sister’s Place (MSP). From celebrating an incredible team member marking 10 years at MSP, recognizing our exceptional Above and Beyond awardees, and highlighting our amazing partners making an impact on the women and children in our programs, we have so much gratitude to share. Read on to be inspired by their powerful stories! | | Celebrating 10 Years of Dedication | | | |
Meet Crismeily (lovingly known as Cris), a dedicated social worker who's spent the last decade transforming countless lives at MSP. Cris is not only an inspiring teammate and leader but also a proud new mother! Her compassion, dedication, and kindness inspire us every day.
| | "What inspired me to pursue social work was my strong desire to serve others and advocate for social justice. As an Afro-Latina, supporting vulnerable communities is deeply personal to me. Over the past 10 years at My Sister’s Place, I've seen countless lives transformed, and making a positive difference is the most rewarding part of my role. Working alongside a supportive team keeps me motivated even during challenging times.—Cris, Children's Program Manager and Shelter Advocate | | Help us celebrate Cris and the vital work our staff does by supporting MSP and sharing our mission with your community. [Forward this email and encourage your friends and family to join us in the fight to end domestic violence!] | | MSP is grateful for the dedicated partners who consistently show up for survivors, and we are humbled to highlight this amazing group of women. AXO exemplifies compassion in action, showing unwavering support and dedication to our mission. Take a look at what they had to say about their partnership with MSP. | | |
We were honored to join DC Run Crew at their recent donation drive and mixer at Alero restaurant, where their members showed up in full force to support My Sister’s Place.
As one member shared, “It's very important to DC Run Crew to give back to the community and support survivors, and that's why we're excited to partner with My Sister's Place.” From organizing thoughtful donations to uplifting our mission publicly, DC Run Crew continues to embody what it means to be active, engaged, and compassionate community leaders. Thank you, DC Run Crew!
| | Takeda Pharmaceutical and Building Impact | | | | | A heartfelt THANK YOU to Takeda Pharmaceutical and Building Impact for donating critical supplies like diapers, hygiene products, and household necessities. Your generosity is a powerful reminder of how partnership and compassion can uplift survivors and the teams who support them. | | Acts of kindness like these bring hope, healing, and joy, and we are truly grateful for these incredible partnerships. Their support allows us to continue providing safety and resources for those in need. | | Celebrating Our Above & Beyond Winners | | This month, we're proud to honor two exceptional team members who embody dedication, compassion, and excellence at MSP. We spoke with them to learn why this award holds special significance: | | | |
Anaia: "The clients inspire me to exceed expectations. Witnessing their joy and success after I’ve provided guidance and support is profoundly rewarding. A defining moment for me happened when a former client expressed her heartfelt appreciation for my belief in her—even when she struggled to believe in herself. This reaffirmed the profound impact of my support. I’m deeply appreciative of this acknowledgment.”
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Keena: "Receiving this award is deeply humbling. As a survivor myself, many moments at MSP remind me of the significance of our work. The ones that stand out the most are when our clients take back their independence. That's what motivates me to go the extra mile, knowing that I can be part of a transformation, helping individuals reclaim their lives, rebuild with strength—it is truly a powerful motivator for me.”
| | We are honored to have Anaia and Keena as part of our team and thank them for going Above and Beyond for survivors. Want to support the people making a difference? Learn more about our work and help us sustain our programming by donating today! | | | Honor Women's History Month | | |
This Women’s History Month, celebrate the strength, resilience, and courage of women survivors by taking meaningful action. Here are three impactful ways to honor their journey:
1. Make a Meaningful Donation
Support vital resources and programs that empower survivors to rebuild and reclaim their lives.
2. Host a Kit Drive
Organize a group to assemble essential care kits, directly aiding women and families seeking safety and independence.
3. Amplify Survivor Voices
Follow and share stories from My Sister’s Place on social media. Help raise awareness and uplift the voices of women transforming their futures.
Find out more ways to support MSP and stand with survivors.
Together, let’s make history by building a safer, more equitable world for all women.
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Brain Injury Awareness Month:
Recognizing the Signs
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Did you know domestic violence is a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)? Survivors often experience head trauma, strangulation, or repeated concussions, leading to serious long-term effects. Brain injuries aren’t always immediately obvious, as symptoms can develop or worsen over time, even without visible bruises or marks. Here are some warning signs to watch for:
Awareness about this topic is critical and could be life saving. Learn more about the intersection between domestic violence and brain injuries at the Ohio Domestic Violence Network website.
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Every month, we’re reminded that change happens because of people like you—our dedicated supporters, advocates, and partners.
Thank you for believing in survivors. Thank you for showing up. Thank you for being a part of this movement.
Stay connected—follow us on social media for more stories and updates!
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'We’re disaster planning’: Trump’s funding freeze rattles domestic violence nonprofits
The DOJ Office on Violence Against Women removed all open funding opportunities from its website in February.
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State funding needed to support domestic violence services in West Virginia
Advocates in West Virginia call for $12.9 million in state funding to sustain critical domestic violence services as federal VOCA support declines.
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How military training can prime service members for domestic abuse
Rigid values like duty, toughness, and loyalty may make it harder for military members to recognize or escape abusive relationships—whether as victims or perpetrators.
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Radiologists can help identify victims of domestic violence
New analysis highlights how radiologists can identify patterns in imaging that may indicate intimate partner violence, aiding in earlier detection and intervention.
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