This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we're honoring our grantee, Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS), for their unwavering commitment to supporting survivors across Carbon and Stillwater counties, filling a critical care need for 20,000 people.  

Born from Vision and Determination 

When Mitzi Vorachek moved to the area in 1998, she was startled by the lack of services for survivors. Within a year of moving, Mitzi launched DSVS with a volunteer crisis helpline, trained community members as advocates, created valuable curricula and trainings, and began building critical infrastructure. Through her vision, DSVS became the only community-based advocacy organization across its 4,000-square-mile service area, a role DSVS continues to hold 26 years later. 

Overcoming Rural Barriers 

Rural survivors face extreme isolation, no public transportation, and difficulty accessing services. In rural areas, where neighbors all know each other, survivors face unique challenges when trying to come forward. In many cases, their abuser is well-known and often well-liked in the community. DSVS specializes in rural advocacy through tailored, one-on-one support through emergency shelter, financial assistance, law enforcement accompaniment, and orders of protection. "Our support is tailored to the needs and the wishes of the survivor, so they are never alone and remain in control of their path forward," explains Katie Fayad. 

Building Prevention Early 

Launched in 2012, Power Up, Speak Out! teaches middle schoolers about respect, boundaries, and consent through lessons that feel real and relatable. "These lessons taught me what the signs of a controlling relationship are when they may have been too subtle in the past to realize," one student reflected. Montana educators helped shape this curriculum specifically for rural youth while ensuring it resonates broadly. 

Survivor Story 

"Laura," a young mother with CNA dreams, watched her marriage shift from affection to escalating violence, leaving her isolated. When she reached out, DSVS advocates discussed her options, reassured her she wasn't alone, and helped her and her daughter secure a safe apartment.

Today, Laura is employed, regaining confidence, and moving forward with safety and hope. "At DSVS, we believe survivors make the difference in their own lives—we don't make choices for them, we walk beside them," Katie emphasizes. 
A Cultural Shift 

In 1999, domestic violence was seen as strictly a family matter kept inside the home. Shifting this narrative took decades of partnerships and public awareness campaigns. Today, law enforcement, medical professionals, and community members collaborate to ensure perpetrators are held accountable and survivors receive the support they deserve. 
At the Women's Foundation of Montana, we're proud to support DSVS's innovative solutions that transform lives through compassionate, survivor-centered care. 

DSVS's 24/7 Helpline: (406)-425-2222