This Month at Project SAGE

February

Welcome to our monthly letter from Project SAGE - a space where we share how we support those impacted by domestic violence, the role education plays in prevention, and the partners and moments that shape our work.

Today, domestic violence includes more than physical harm. It can also involve patterns of coercive control – such as emotional manipulation, financial control, and digital monitoring – often without visible signs and across all ages, backgrounds, and genders.

The new year is often a time when questions come into focus — about what feels right, what’s shifted, and where more clarity might help. At Project SAGE, conversations often begin in the same place: with questions rather than answers. One question we hear often is: “Do I have to be in crisis to reach out?”

The short answer is no.

At Project SAGE, we’re here to listen and support people through moments ranging from urgent to uncertain. Support at Project SAGE isn’t one-size-fits-all. Many people contact us simply to talk things through — to ask questions, sort out concerns, or get guidance about a situation that doesn’t feel quite right. Some reach out for themselves; others are looking for ways to support a child, a friend, or a family member. There’s no expectation to take action, make decisions, or label what’s happening — unless and until someone is ready. Often, the first step is just a conversation.

What matters most is that support adapts to each person’s situation — and moves at a pace that feels right for them.

So, if questions come up — for you or for someone you care about — just know Project SAGE is here.

SAGE Around Town

You’ll see Project SAGE around town this February with a small table at NBT Bank (5 Bissell Street, Lakeville). Stop by to find information about our work, a few rotating swag items, and a stack of books you’re welcome to take home — no checkout, no returns, just like the Little Free Library outside our office.

We’ll also be out and about at the Kent Chocolate Fest — a favorite local event supporting the Kent Center School Scholarship Fund. If you’re going, we hope you’ll grab a treat and enjoy the festivities: Kent Center School, February 11, 3:30–5:00 pm. (Snow date: February 12)

Become a Trade Secrets Underwriter!

Trade Secrets is Project SAGE’s annual fundraiser, and underwriting makes it possible.

Underwriters cover the cost of the event so that 100% of the proceeds — representing nearly 30% of our annual operating budget — directly support Project SAGE’s free, confidential programs for victims and survivors of interpersonal and relationship violence.

From the Activist Level ($300) to the Visionary Level ($15,000), each underwriting level includes meaningful benefits and exclusive access—while directly investing in safety, advocacy, prevention, and education in our community.

NEW this year: Saturday Sip & Savor at Tenmile Distillery (included at select levels)

Thank you to our underwriters for making Trade Secrets — and our mission — possible. Learn more about underwriting opportunities on our website.

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Youth Voices in Action

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM) — a time to pause, learn, and pay closer attention to how young people experience relationships.

Many people don’t realize that dating abuse among teens often shows up without physical violence. Nearly 1 in 3 teens in the U.S. experiences some form of dating abuse, including emotional pressure, control, or digital monitoring. These experiences often begin quietly, which is why awareness and early conversation matter.

This month, we’re grateful for a meaningful collaboration with Housatonic Valley Regional High School, where students in grades 9–12 were invited to design an awareness-raising sticker focused on healthy relationships. With support from health teachers Jeff Tripp and Jacquie Rice, art teachers Patricia Vanicky and Lilly Rand, and Principal Ian Strever, the project centered youth voices as an important part of prevention.

We extend special thanks to student artist Meriel H., whose design was selected, and to the HVRHS faculty who supported the printing and production of the stickers. When young people help shape the message, conversations about healthy relationships become more relevant — and more likely to resonate with their peers. This partnership reflects what early prevention can look like: informed, creative, and rooted in community.

Thank you for being part of the Project SAGE community. We’re glad to stay connected and to share our work as it unfolds throughout the year.

A favorite thought from our Executive Director

It's okay to take things one step at a time.

Jane Doe Society

Leave a Legacy of Home

Approximately one in four women experience sexual and physical violence, including stalking, by an intimate partner in their lifetime. However, only half of these crimes are reported to law enforcement. Many victims remain anonymous.

The Jane Doe Society commemorates countless unidentified victims of intimate partner violence, honoring them and their untold stories.

Your contribution in the form of a planned gift to the Jane Doe Society strengthens the work of Project SAGE while acknowledging the lived experiences of all those impacted by domestic violence. Speak with your family and financial advisor about the Society’s planned giving options to leave your legacy in honor of those known and unknown.

Please contact Brenna Doyle, Development Associate, at brennad@project-sage.org to make an impact.