There are better ways to aid survivors.
Since 1977, A Better Way has provided the Muncie Community with a vessel for shelter and services for survivors of domestic violence to find safety. From its humble beginning 43 years ago, the organization has expanded to not only provide shelter and services for Survivors of domestic violence, but for every crisis including suicide, homelessness, bullying and Survivors of sexual assault.
The organization has noted their main initiative simply as what their name describes—to provide a better way for survivors of any crisis to find a safe haven within the Muncie Community. Kate Murray, community engagement director for A Better Way, said they work to help survivors understand their situation and provide the help they need to grow from it.
“We give individuals a chance to leave that abusive situation, have the support to understand why they may have chosen to return in the past and help them make steps to move forward.” Murray said. “We try and help them have the tools to make the decision that is best for them.”
Reigning true to their mission, what started as a one-room shelter, now provides services such as a walk-in Rape Crisis Center, support groups, transitional housing, 24-hour crisis hotline, domestic and teen dating violence prevention programs, individual trauma-informed counseling and even a check-in call service for elderly or disabled homebound persons, according to A Better Way’s website.
The multitude of services that A Better Way provides for survivors of domestic violence is more critical than ever, as data from the Domestic Violence Network found that in Indiana, 42% of women reported experiencing some form of violence from a partner throughout their lifetime. In 2008 alone, the Muncie Police Department reported a total of 3,485 calls were taken by A Better Way in regard to help from domestic violence.
Murray stated that the organization strives to reduce those rates within the Muncie and Delaware County communities through intervention and prevention initiatives.
“We invest a lot of time in educating the youth about healthy relationships knowing that they are our future and if we can help them choose a life that doesn’t include violence, we will all be better off. “
A Better Way not only provides services for crisis survivors, but for their family members as well. Along with the plethora of support for the survivors, A Better Way also has a children’s support group.
Murray said these support groups are a key aspect to helping domestic violence survivors.
“We all benefit when we all rise up.” Murray said. “Making sure every family and child has the best opportunities provided for them is absolutely critical.”
According to Ball State junior Brooke Speranza, who frequently volunteered at A Better Way, it’s here that the children are cared for while their parent or guardian gets the support that they need.
“While any parents or guardians went to their adult support group, we would watch the children and do activities with them,” Speranza said.
Speranza added that the support groups provided also allow for healing, not only for the survivor, but for their children too.
“With the support from the staff there, they were able to see that their parent or guardian is getting the support they need to heal, which also allows for the children to heal,” Speranza said.
Speranza noted that A Better Way not only provides support but a safe space for survivors of domestic violence that leaves a lasting impression on the Muncie Community, while bringing awareness to the critical need for victim support.
“The support and services they provide for those who have experienced domestic violence is truly impactful,” she said. “It really showed me the importance of community support and how valuable a service like this is.”
A Better Way brings astounding support for survivors while shining a light on the gravity of the issue that is domestic violence, even in a small community like Muncie. Speranza said it’s organizations like A Better Way that provide the security needed for survivors of domestic violence, or any crisis, to find hope in the darkest of times.
“Domestic violence is a scary situation to be in, making it hard for survivors to find a way out,” Speranza said. “A Better Way is that way out and supports everyone that comes through their doors.”
Murray noted that sometimes the impact of domestic violence within a community goes unknown, but helping the crisis survivors allows for a stronger community presence in the end.
“Just because you aren’t experiencing violence in your home, doesn’t mean that it isn’t impacting the community as a whole.” Murray said. “If we can have a more peaceful community, we’re going to have a more successful community.
If you or someone you know has become a survivor of domestic violence or crisis, contact A Better Way’s 24-hour Crisis Hotline at 765-288-HELP .
