JDI is honored to have the support of three national companies who have made a commitment to helping end violence against women. These Corporate Partners step up to the plate with more than financial support. They engage their workforce to creatively address the needs of survivors and enhance the services of programs.  Please join us in thanking them for their generosity and leadership.

• The Allstate Foundation awarded JDI a grant to establish a focus on economic advocacy. Using the Financial Empowerment Curriculum developed by Allstate and the National Network to End Domestic Violence, JDI is training advocates to help survivors prepare for the future by helping them better understand and manage their personal finances.
• Verizon demonstrated its commitment throughout the year with grants, outreach, and educational activities. Over the years, Verizon employees have participated in White Ribbon Day; the company has supported our advocacy efforts and and technology needs; and they partnered with JDI to host a screening of "Telling Amy's Story" at WGBH.

Massachusetts was a participant in three national studies in 2011.  These three independent reports singularly and collectively validate the effectiveness of sexual and domestic violence services. The Commonwealth should feel quite confident that public as well as private funds are well spent. We are very proud to share this evidence that our members are saving and changing lives and making a difference every day.  Read more...

Maria's Story from YWCA of Greater Lawrence.

“Maria,” age 28, and the mother of three, was an undocumented immigrant who came to Lawrence from Guatemala and was being physically abused by her partner. Because she feared deportation, she was reluctant to report the abuse. Through word of mouth, Maria learned about the YWCA of Greater Lawrence and its bilingual Court Advocates. A YWCA Advocate, one of two working full-time in offices in the building that houses the Lawrence District Court, helped Maria to obtain a U Visa, for undocumented aliens experiencing domestic abuse. Knowing she would not be deported gave Maria the courage to obtain a restraining order and file charges against her abuser. Her partner is now in jail. Maria is working – legally, obtained permanent housing and is working toward obtaining permanent residency status. She and her children no longer live in fear.