Uploaded October 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 day ago
Today's Community Conversation includes references to domestic violence that some viewers might find difficult or disturbing. Viewer discretion is advised. If you or a loved one are experiencing Domestic Violence, help is available via the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Please note that, unless explicitly stated by a presenter, we are not licensed mental health professionals.
The information provided in these sessions should not be considered medical or psychological advice. If you are seeking mental health support or treatment, we recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Always prioritize professional guidance for any health-related decisions. We honor diverse forms of healing and encourage individuals to explore care that aligns with their values, culture, and personal well-being.
Our speaker today: Janel Griffieth, Nonprofit Professional. Agent of Change. Public Speaker
Each year, an estimated 10 million people in the United States experience domestic violence, a silent epidemic that deeply impacts individuals, families, and communities. Abuse thrives in silence, making it essential to understand how to respond with care and empathy. This presentation, “Supporting Someone Experiencing Domestic Violence,” will introduce key concepts and practical steps for providing effective support. Participants will learn how to recognize signs of abuse, approach survivors safely and respectfully, and identify resources that empower survivors to make their own choices.
By fostering awareness and compassionate action, we can help end the silence on violence and create pathways toward safety and healing.
Key Takeaways:
• Learn how to approach survivors with empathy, maintain their confidentiality, and respect their autonomy while offering resources and encouragement.
• Gain knowledge of local and national support services, safety planning strategies, and ways to help break the cycle of silence in your community.
To access today’s agenda and the recording of this call - or to ask more questions - visit https://maddies.fund/communityconversations102025
00:00 Welcome and introductions
04:45 Presentation
About Community Conversations, hosted by Maddie’s Fund: When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020, animal sheltering transformed overnight. Foster-based sheltering, home-based employees and volunteers, along with collaboration galvanized our communities. The pandemic, along with social injustice, has motivated our industry to look at how we partner with our communities and confront our own biases. Shelter and rescue staff across the country began talking on a weekly basis, offering support and innovative ideas to do things differently. To learn more about these calls, visit forum.maddiesfund.org/communityconversations
Today's Community Conversation includes references to domestic violence that some viewers might find difficult or disturbing. Viewer discretion is advised. If you or a loved one are experiencing Domestic Violence, help is available via the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Please note that, unless explicitly stated by a presenter, we are not licensed mental health professionals.
The information provided in these sessions should not be considered medical or psychological advice. If you are seeking mental health support or treatment, we recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Always prioritize professional guidance for any health-related decisions. We honor diverse forms of healing and encourage individuals to explore care that aligns with their values, culture, and personal well-being.
Our speaker today: Janel Griffieth, Nonprofit Professional. Agent of Change. Public Speaker
Each year, an estimated 10 million people in the United States experience domestic violence, a silent epidemic that deeply impacts individuals, families, and communities. Abuse thrives in silence, making it essential to understand how to respond with care and empathy. This presentation, “Supporting Someone Experiencing Domestic Violence,” will introduce key concepts and practical steps for providing effective support. Participants will learn how to recognize signs of abuse, approach survivors safely and respectfully, and identify resources that empower survivors to make their own choices.
By fostering awareness and compassionate action, we can help end the silence on violence and create pathways toward safety and healing.
Key Takeaways:
• Learn how to approach survivors with empathy, maintain their confidentiality, and respect their autonomy while offering resources and encouragement.
• Gain knowledge of local and national support services, safety planning strategies, and ways to help break the cycle of silence in your community.
To access today’s agenda and the recording of this call - or to ask more questions - visit https://maddies.fund/communityconversations102025
00:00 Welcome and introductions
04:45 Presentation
About Community Conversations, hosted by Maddie’s Fund: When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020, animal sheltering transformed overnight. Foster-based sheltering, home-based employees and volunteers, along with collaboration galvanized our communities. The pandemic, along with social injustice, has motivated our industry to look at how we partner with our communities and confront our own biases. Shelter and rescue staff across the country began talking on a weekly basis, offering support and innovative ideas to do things differently. To learn more about these calls, visit forum.maddiesfund.org/communityconversations
