Dear Friends of the Two River Area,

180 is truly humbled to have been selected the recipient of the inaugural Impact 100 grant. It was an absolute honor for me to share 180’s vision for a new model of service and justice for individuals impacted by domestic violence in Monmouth County. Impact 100 Jersey Coast is clearly an innovative group of societal change-makers. The tenor of this passionate group of diverse women reminded me very much of the cohort of feminists who founded 180 many decades ago. Our activists back then actually picked domestic violence victims up in their cars and brought them into their own homes. Totally grass roots with no model to follow. However, 180’s work was recognized and we were the first federally funded battered women’s shelter in the country – right here in Monmouth County! Since then 180 has been the leader in building community partnerships, service and intervention programs and crisis response for healing and recovery.

With the Impact 100 grant, 180 will establish a Family Justice Center (FJC). FJCs are a national model that have been proven to work and save lives. A Family Justice Center is a collaboration with law enforcement, lawyers, counselors, and child abuse specialists, all under one roof. Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and human trafficking can go to a Family Justice Center and obtain most of the services they need, the same day.  Everyone collaborates in real time, right then and there, not in a few days, a week or a month. A Family Justice Center is proven to: reduce homicides, reduce recidivism (repeat offenses), reduce the barriers and fragmentation of service and they reduce trauma and the re-victimization of victims and their children. Family Justice Centers increase victim safety and increase conviction rates. Family Justice Centers save lives!

I would like to extend my sincere regards and utmost respect to the other competing nonprofit organizations that do so much incredible good throughout our community – it was an honor to stand alongside of each of you. We all are making a positive impact in Monmouth County! On behalf of all survivors of domestic and sexual violence, we thank Impact 100 Jersey Coast for providing this opportunity and for believing in our plan. Together we unite to establish a Family Justice Center in Monmouth County.

Sincerely,

Anna Diaz-White

Executive Director

180 Turning Lives Around