D'VA conception

After being a Domestic Violence Court Advocate for five years, in the Sixth District Municipal Courthouse, I realized that there are numerous barriers to eradicating domestic violence. Working as a Court Advocate allowed me the opportunity to work within the judicial and social services process to assist victims of domestic violence in learning about legal remedies and social services resources that were available to them to help foster a life free from domestic violence.  Many of my responsibilities included providing Community Outreach and Education (for and from several south suburban police departments), Training and Case Management.  Although the judicial and social services sector have addressed domestic violence and aids victims in alleviating the problems that they incur in abusive relationships, the employment sector has not effectively addressed domestic violence. During my time in Graduate School, while conducting research I observed a lack of knowledge and understanding within corporations regarding the effects of domestic violence in the workplace. Due to increasing domestic violence at the workplace, the responsibility for providing protection for employees is becoming a considerable factor in providing adequate safety and security to all employees.

Our CEO

Founder and CEO Verna D. Johnson is a resident of the South Chicagoland area. Ms. Johnson has 10 years experience in the public and social services sector. She obtained her Bachelors of Science in Political Science from Illinois State University and her Master of Public Administration from Governors State University. Professional fields include education, training and advocacy, workforce development, academic youth programs. Her professional skills include teaching, program development, implementation and evaluation, training. Her professional background experience includes working with the following groups: victims of domestic violence; at risk youth; welfare to work recipients; displaced workers and youth workers.