Services are all free and available to anyone who is a victim/survivor of domestic  violence – regardless of race, sexual orientation, religion, immigration status, gender identity, age, or disability.

We are here to help

Our services include:

• 24-hour crisis hotline 256-236-7233 or 800-650-6522

• Emergency shelter: The Joy Kathryn Courtney House offers a safe, confidentially located temporary residence for those fleeing domestic violence. The Legacy House is designed for older victims or those with limited mobility. The 2nd Chance staff at both locations is available 24/7 to provide support, encouragement, and assistance. Clothing, food and toiletries are provided at no cost to the residents. Residents of the shelters may be eligible for subsidized housing programs.

• Court and Legal Advocacy: The Criminal Justice system can be overwhelming and hard to navigate alone. 2nd Chance victims’ advocates can work with survivors if they choose to move forward with a Protection from Abuse Order.

• Case Management: Victims’ Advocates can offer individual support to help victims/survivors through systems and processes that assist in recovery from the violence they have endured. This individual case management can expedite their movement to independent living free from abuse. Victims’ Advocates can assist with accessing a variety of community resources and additional support systems. The Victims’ Advocate can provide these services for individuals as well as families. 

• Elder abuse supportive services: Abuse in later life may bring a unique set of challenges for those who experience it. 2nd Chance staff works with older victims/survivors providing age/ability appropriate support and assistance based on individual needs and in a different setting at the Legacy House.

• Child advocacy: Children often need special care after witnessing domestic violence. The Child Advocate provides a warm and inviting space with books and toys available for children while they stay in the Joy Kathryn Courtney House. Children can work on art or other activities or use the outdoor playground area. Children are also welcomed to attend the monthly outings and activities planned by the 2nd Chance staff. 

• Follow-Up Services: After domestic violence trauma, it can sometimes help to have someone to talk to. Victims’ Advocates connect with survivors as often as requested, providing support and understanding, community referrals as needed, and can connect the survivor with additional 2^nd Chance services as appropriate.

• Support groups and holistic wellness activities for survivors and their support systems: 2^nd Chance offers activities for survivors that focus on the mind, body, and spirit are critical for the healing journey for some. Trauma-informed Yoga, adult activities nights, Survivors’ Experiences group and other experiential activities are some of the on-going projects that are open to survivors and their loved ones.

• Counseling services: The Licensed Professional Counselor on staff works with adult domestic and/or sexual violence survivors and non-offending loved ones, who are considered secondary survivors. Using a variety of therapeutic methods, the counselor works with the survivor as they process their trauma.  Because each person’s trauma is unique, our LPC is able to work with individuals regardless of when their trauma occurred. Free child care can be arranged for individuals in need while they are in their therapy session. Please speak to our counselor about this when you make your appointment. 
• Assistance with pets: 2nd Chance understands that almost half of victims/survivors of domestic violence who own pets delay fleeing a dangerous situation because they fear for the safety of their animals. Staff will do its utmost to make arrangements for housing victims’ pets so the safety of their animals won’t be a barrier to their escape.
• Community Outreach: 2nd Chance provides educational opportunities and training to the general public and for groups of 2 to 20000… Programs can be tailored to fit your organization’s needs.  Contact the Outreach Offices at 256-236-7381 and let us come to you with a presentation on the dynamics of domestic and/or sexual violence, 2nd Chance services, abuse in later life, DV in the workplace, forensic examination, vicarious trauma or most anything to do with these topics.