News & Updates from Atlanta Victim Assistance, Inc.

Welcome!

We are excited to launch this periodic newsletter to share updates, stories of impact, and ways you can get more involved at AVA. With more than 40 years of serving our community, we couldn't do this critical work without your support; thank you for being a vital part of our mission!

With gratitude,

Shontel Brunson-Wright

Executive Director, Atlanta Victim Assistance, Inc.

AVA teams up with Atlanta schools to prevent youth violence

AVA has expanded our school-based Safety 1st advocacy program to Luther J. Price Middle School. Safety 1st offers onsite school support aimed at breaking the cycle of violence by addressing the heightened risks faced by youth who witness violence in their homes, schools, or communities, and the program offers support to families that are impacted by violence.

Safety 1st, established in 2017, has already provided vital services to over 1,050 students and their families at Maynard Jackson and Carver STEAM Academy high schools. The program's expansion into Price middle school marks a significant step in our commitment to providing critical early intervention for youth affected by violence and crime.

Join us on Saturday, Oct. 4!

5K Run/Walk & Domestic Violence Resource Fair

To commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, AVA will host its second annual 5K Run & Walk and domestic violence resource fair on Saturday, Oct. 4 in the Historic Grant Park neighborhood. In partnership with the Atlanta Police Department, Spelman College, and the Fulton County Family Violence Task Force, the event is for runners, walkers, or anyone who wants to support a great cause from the sidelines. We even have a free mini dash for kids and a free resource fair for all to enjoy!

AVA in the News

From our new Community Care Unit (CCU) to our Safety 1st program, AVA has been recently making headlines! Our work to provide critical support to victims of crime is more important than ever, and we are grateful to local news outlets for shining a light on our mission.

See the Stories

Meet the Team

Behind AVA stands a dedicated team of compassionate individuals united in their mission to support and empower survivors of crime.

Meet the Team

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September 2025

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