MANSFIELD — The Domestic Violence Shelter has launched a countywide Community Needs Assessment to guide future services and better support survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking in Richland County.
For more than four decades, the shelter has provided safety, advocacy, and resources for individuals and families in crisis. This new assessment marks an important next step in ensuring programs remain responsive to the community’s evolving needs.
“The Domestic Violence Shelter is committed to supporting survivors and creating a safer community,” said Executive Director Colleen Rice. “This needs assessment is a crucial step in shaping our services to reflect the voices of survivors and community members.
“Your input will help us secure funding and plan strategically for the future. Together, we can make a lasting impact.”
The shelter is encouraging residents, survivors, businesses, schools, churches and local organizations to partake in the assessment.
The goal is to ensure that voices from across Richland County, including survivors and partner organizations, are heard and incorporated into the shelter’s future planning.
The information gathered will guide programming decisions, support grant applications, and inform strategic initiatives designed to better meet the needs of survivors.
Individuals interested in joining an online or in-person listening session—or in receiving updates about upcoming opportunities — can sign up at this link.
Confidentiality and survivor safety will remain a top priority throughout the process. The assessment will be facilitated by Client Experience Group, a firm specializing in community-driven evaluation and service design.
The Domestic Violence Shelter remains dedicated to advocating for survivors, empowering families, and fostering a safer, more informed community.
The needs assessment represents a collective opportunity to listen, learn, and strengthen support for those affected by domestic violence.
For questions or additional information, contact Colleen Rice, Executive Director, by phone at 419-774-5843 ext. 101, or by email: crice@thedvshelter.com.
Domestic Violence Shelter
The Domestic Violence Shelter has been serving Richland County for more than 45 years.
Our mission is to build a peaceful community by providing safety, education and supportive services while empowering survivors and those affected by domestic violence, human trafficking and sexual assault.
The shelter is a non-profit organization.