Through Stepping Stones Agencies’ Helpline, Advocates Let Callers Know They’re Not Alone … and that They Can Become Empowered to Create a Future Free From Victimization

By Stepping Stones Agencies

“I was so scared for me and my kids after the last fight with my husband. I knew that I couldn’t bear another one like that. So I called Stepping Stones again. I called two years ago but didn’t leave. This time though, I knew I had to do it. I’ve learned so much living at the shelter, and I see big change in my children’s lives. Every one-on-one, every ed block, I feel supported. I’ve learned new skills to lead a better, happier life. I’m glad I made the call again.”

For 42 years, women have found safety, healing, and hope at Stepping Stones Agencies when they are facing some of the lowest moments in their lives. Even during times of hopelessness and desperation, they find enough courage to pick up the phone and call our 24/7/365 helpline. When they talk to an advocate, they learn that they are not alone, and that support is available.

Our advocates are committed to come to each call with freshness and hear from the caller exactly where they are in that moment. Our team can hear through hostility, fear, anxiety, or even humor, and really pick up on the pain and suffering the person on the line is experiencing.

Stepping Stones advocates stay clear on Stepping Stones’ purpose: not to “fix” people, but to be with them and help empower them to take action. Finally, advocates provide honest and direct feedback to best meet the needs of each caller.

What we hope for anyone who calls us is that they feel non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance and rigorous honesty, that will, at just the right moment in time, help them to experience their “moment of clarity” and begin to make decisions that will help them and their children live free from all forms of future victimization.

Thanks to the serenity, safety, and strength they receive from the voice at the other end of the line, callers discover that there is hope for a future without abuse. And our hope is when they hang up they feel heard, treated with respect and dignity, and know the grace of new-found fellowship.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and Stepping Stones advocates are here around the clock for anyone who needs safety and healing from abuse and all forms of victimization. It just takes one brave phone call to 928.445.HOPE (4673).

To learn more about Stepping Stones Agencies, visit www.steppingstonesaz.org. Stepping Stones provides safety, support, and hope for adults and children affected by domestic violence and other forms of abuse. Advocates available 24/7/365: 928.445.HOPE (4673).