MISSION STATEMENT     To assist victims of family violence and their families by providing direct services for victims of physical abuse, rape, sexual assault, child abuse, child sexual abuse, and abuse survivors; and to provide education to prevent future generations of victims and abusers; and to raise community awareness on the problem of family violence.

HISTORY     The Coalition was chartered in February 1978 by the Craven County Board of Commissioners as an advisory body on the status of women in our community. We were incorporated in 1981 as a 501(c)3, and later became the Sexual Assault Resource Center, serving victims of rape and sexual assault. In 2003, we achieved our highest evolution by becoming the Community Coalition Against Family Violence, serving victims of family violence. We are affiliated with the North Carolina Council on Women/Domestic Violence Commission.

FUNDING     Funding is provided by Craven County, Jones County, United Way of Coastal Carolina, the North Carolina Council on Women/Domestic Violence Commission. In addition, federal and private foundation grants fund specific programs, such as the Victim Services program and the Prevention Education program. Donations are always gratefully accepted from individuals and local organizations through our Community Partnership Program. The Coalition also hosts several fundraisers throughout the year in order to raise awareness for our programs and services, as well as funds to maintain operations.

AWARENESS     We recognize that just responding to existing victims and their families, however, will not decrease the frequency of future incidents of family violence. This is where our Prevention Education program comes in. Our Community Educator provides educational and informative presentations throughout our school system, to children of all grade levels, staff, faculty, professional groups, churches, and any other interested group of individuals -- all free of charge. The work done in the school systems is especially critical because it empowers our kids with the information and tools they need to avoid potentially abusive situations, and where to go for help if they are experiencing abuse. Presentation topics include good touch/bad touch, personal body safety, bullying, internet safety, dating violence, abstinence, and sexual harassment, among others. Additionally, we educate the community on how to spot signs of abuse, what to do if you suspect abuse, and how to prevent future abuse.