VOICES is a national advocacy committee sponsored by the Verizon Foundation. Its members, many of whom have received services at a Family Justice Center, are survivors of domestic violence now celebrating their strength and survival by using their voices in the hopes of helping others through advocacy, education and empowerment. VOICES also seeks to develop communication protocols, opportunities for public speaking and advocacy, and a strategic plan for development of National Chapters. 

VOICES History
VOICES was launched in San Diego in 2002. At that time, members of VOICES served as an advisory committee for the San Diego Family Justice Center, assisted with training and spoke at various public events to bring awareness to the services provided at the Family Justice Center. 

VOICES Nationally
VOICES is developing an outreach effort to create a nationwide group of survivors to educate the public about family violence, and support new and existing Family Justice Centers. This national movement is supported by a Steering Committee, Chaired by Yolanda Matos (Executive Director of Valley Crisis Center) and Co-Chaired by Dr. Diane Lass (Integrated Mental Health Services, San Diego FJC) and the Family Justice Center Alliance. The vision of the National VOICES Steering Committee is to include various members from other VOICES Chapters. 

VOICES San Diego
Currently VOICES in San Diego is Chaired by Lana Culliver and Co-Chaired by Julie Solis and has 20 active members. VOICES San Diego members have developed a speaker’s bureau and are available to speak as keynote speakers at community events, trainings, and conferences. Members are also involved in communicating with elected officials, providing a presence at media events, educational and awareness programs and writing letters to those who can spark change and increase support for victims and their families. Another project that has begun in San Diego is development of a DV training video which will include a PowerPoint presentation, heartfelt personal stories and curriculum which can be used live or via internet for training. The target date for completion of this training video is July 2009. 

VOICES New Chapters
Nampa Family Justice Center in Nampa, Idaho, founded in 2008 and Chaired by Kimberly Middleton. 

For more information about starting your VOICES Chapter, contact Yolanda Matos at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by phone 208-465-5011.