In a recent episode of the Vital Voices podcast, two dedicated social workers from the City of Alexandria’s Domestic Violence Program (DVP), Tania and Erin, share their experiences and insights into the crucial services they provide for survivors of domestic violence. Both passionate about women’s issues, Tania and Erin have devoted their careers to supporting those affected by violence, offering guidance, resources and hope through some of the most challenging times in their clients’ lives. 

Tania, a Family Services Specialist, has been part of the Domestic Violence Program since 2007. Erin, a Senior Residential Counselor, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in social work while continuing her work as a victim advocate. Their deep commitment to this cause comes from personal passions and early influences. Erin knew from a young age that she wanted to become a therapist, driven by a natural inclination to help her friends through their own struggles. She later became a victim advocate, empowering survivors with support during their most vulnerable moments. Tania started as a volunteer in the program, drawn to the work of crisis counseling. Her desire to help those experiencing sexual assault and domestic violence has evolved into a career built on providing ongoing support for survivors as they navigate the long path to recovery. 

Both women recently participated in the 16 Days of Activism campaign, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about domestic violence and advocating for change. As part of their work, they highlight key services provided by the DVP, which include a 24-hour hotline, a women’s support group (available in both English and Spanish), an emergency shelter and specialized case workers who support survivors in a variety of ways.

The shelter offers temporary housing for women escaping domestic violence, and each woman is assigned a caseworker to assist her during her stay. One of the program’s key strengths is its ability to serve individuals from all different backgrounds. The Domestic Violence Program staff is trained to overcome cultural and language barriers, providing interpretation services to ensure that every survivor receives support. 

A central part of the program is its work on financial abuse, which is often used by abusers to control their victims. Erin and Tania discussed how abusers may restrict their partner’s access to finances, prevent them from working, or even open accounts in their names. The Domestic Violence Program addresses these issues through a housing specialist who teaches clients about budgeting, reviews credit reports, and helps survivors understand their financial options. Additionally, the housing specialist has extensive connections within the community, including rental offices and workforce development programs, to assist survivors in gaining financial independence and finding stable housing.

Tania and Erin also touched on Virginia’s unique legal framework and how it plays a significant role in the handling of domestic violence cases. As a mandatory arrest state, Virginia law requires police to arrest perpetrators of domestic violence when they are called to the scene, and it mandates that a protective order be issued. However, the process of involving law enforcement and legal system can be challenging for survivors, especially those who are reluctant to take further action. Tania and Erin shared how difficult it can be for survivors to face their abusers in court or follow through with a protective order, especially if they are still in a relationship with their abuser. Despite these obstacles, they continue to educate victims about their options and help them develop personalized safety plans. 

Another challenge that the program faces is the lack of affordable housing in the northern Virginia area. Many survivors find it difficult to secure housing after leaving the shelter, which forces them to return to their abuser or remain in the shelter longer than necessary. Erin stressed that while housing is a significant barrier, they are committed to helping clients through these tough transitions, providing them with the resources and guidance they need to regain their independence. 

The use of technology by abusers to track and or control survivors has also become a growing concern. Tania and Erin shared how abusers use devices such as trackers, smartphones and social media to monitor their victims’ movements and invade their privacy. This adds another level of complexity to the already difficult journey of escaping an abusive relationship. The program works with survivor to address these technological concerns and educate them on how to regain control over their digital privacy.

In addition to their direct services, Tania and Erin also emphasized the program’s proactive outreach to schools. DVP makes it imperative that youth are educated about the signs of domestic violence and how to recognize it in their own homes. By encouraging open conversations about healthy relationships and warning signs of abuse, the program hopes to prevent future generations from experiencing or perpetuating domestic violence. This early intervention empowers students to better understand the impact of abuse and to seek help if they ever find themselves in an unsafe situation. 

The program has seen remarkable success stories. One survivor, initially reluctant to take action, found the strength to stand up for herself with the help of the DVP team. After enduring years of abuse, she eventually found the courage to seek a protective order and move on with her life.  This is one of many stories that demonstrate the power of support, education, and empowerment in helping survivors rebuild their lives. 

The work of people like Tania and Erin and the Domestic Violence Program is essential to the community. Through their efforts, they continue to raise awareness, educate professionals, and support survivors in their journeys toward safety, healing and independence. Their participation in the 16 Days of Activism campaign launched by Vital Voices serves as a reminder that the fight against domestic violence is ongoing—and that hope, help, and healing are always within reach for those who need it most. 

We encourage you to check out this episode of the Vital Voices podcast. Start listening:

Tania, Erin & Supporting Survivors by Vital Voices 16 Days of Activism Series