We promote community awareness and provide tangible resources to individuals impacted by domestic violence.
Intimate partner violence accounts for 15% of all violent crime. Many Tennesseeans experience intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner rape and/or intimate partner stalking in their lifetimes.
- Women 40%
- Men 32%
Victims of domestic violence may be unable to
leave an abusive partner or may be forced to return to an abusive partner for economic reasons.
When an abuser takes control of or limits access to shared or individual assets or limits the current or future earning potential of the victim as a strategy of power and control, that is economic abuse. Between 94-99% of survivors have also experienced economic abuse.
Access to emergency and sustainable resources is crucial for transitioning a domestic violence victim to a survivor and preventing the return to an abuser only to be a victimized again.
Emergency resources including but not limited to; temporary housing, transportation, financial assistance, legal navigation, relocation, and counseling. Once emergency needs are me, then sustainable resources are needed such as: financial recovery education, employment, and permanent housing.
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Our Story
In 2008, a young married mother of 3 took the bold step of leaving an abusive relationship for good. She was going through many personal and professional challenges, including job loss, unstable living conditions and lack of transportation.
While pursuing tangible resources for herself and her children, she shared her story with individuals and organizations who took an interest in not only helping her, but asked if she would speak to others in similar situations. This sparked her passion for helping survivors of domestic violence and she began her walk and talk through speaking to at events, attending therapy sessions, formal advocacy training, and resource coordination.
With the support of her family, help from close friends and colleagues, and a financial gift from a motivated social media follower, our Executive Director, Joyce Kyles built on her college education and professional training to register Walking into A New Life as an official 501(C)3 non-profit organization in 2010.
Since the formation of a board, advisors, and volunteers, WIANL has expanded its reach to survivors through sponsorships, events, and partnering with organization that worked in cross sections of domestic violence advocacy.
Services
flex spending cards
Resources such as gas, co-pays, personal items, etc. are very important for those affected by domestic abuse. Not having them can often make a difference in whether or not a personal leaves or stays in an unhealthy situation. The flex cards offer an extra boost of financial support and confidence needed to make their journey a bit smoother.
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE
When a person chooses to leave an abusive relationship, they put themselves in greater risk of retaliation by the abuser. Relocating to another area can establish a fresh start, help to provide a sense of safety and support from family members, friends or other agencies. The transition may be a bit scary. The goal is to put their minds at ease as they establish a holistically happy, safe, stable life.
REsource referral
Domestic violence include many intersections such as sexual trauma, reproductive rights, housing options, legal assistance, counseling, etc. We work with individuals, businesses, and organizations to connect victims and survivors of abuse to the wraparound services for which they may not be aware. We want to eliminate as many barriers as possible.
Programs
Pamper and support day
Since 2011, our quarterly pamper and support day events have provided a sense of community love, support, relaxation, and resources in safe spaces. These food, fun, and fellowship events are designed for those currently dealing with abuse, those who have transitioned out of their abusive relationships, and advocates for the cause.
Men Against Domestic Violence initiatives
In 2012, we began encouraging and promoting male involvement for mentoring, education and healthy relationships through community events, blogging, and various campaigns. We also started an annual Men’s Brunch where we acknolowdge men who play a positive role in this movement.
Community Outreach and Volunteering
We host events throughout the year to bring DV awareness, advocacy and positive change to the greater Memphis community. Events like “(Lip) Sync for your Life”, “Stepping (Dance) Out Against DV “, cell phone drives, restaurant fundraisers and more. We also volunteer as an organization at other community events.
Policy & Advocacy
The voices of victims and survivors must be heard and respected without judgement. Decisions regarding policy and advocacy have a much better chance of establishing and maintaining positive results when that happens. See what your local/state representatives are doing for this cause TN General Assembly. Register to vote here.
Every aspect of what we do here is a direct reflection of needs expressed by victims, survivors, advocates and the community at large.Executive Director – Joyce Kyles
Community Partners
Sponsors
Pearl Walker
“The Hair Deva”
Bennie Cobb
Eagle Eye Security
Bridgette Rodriguez
Founding Sponsor
