What is the mission of The Second Step?
Founded in 1992, The Second Step is a private non-profit organization that provides survivors of domestic violence and their children with transitional housing and links to services and resources. All people have a right to safety and dignity in relationships. The Second Step is dedicated to adult and child survivors of domestic violence. Responding to each family's strengths and values, we partner to enhance supportive community and identify pathways to physical and emotional healing, housing, and financial security. We work at the individual, community, and societal levels to end domestic violence.
How long has The Second Step operated?
The Second Step was conceived in 1988 and opened its first transitional residence in 1992.
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Where is The Second Step located?
The Second Step is located in a well-resourced suburb of Boston, midway between the city center and the outlying suburbs and easily accessible by public transportation.
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How many people does The Second Step serve?
The Second Step has served over 500 families in its residences and over 1400 families in its non-residential programs. Sixteen families may be in residence at any given time, while 120 families participate in The Second Step’s non-residential programs each year.
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Where do The Second Step’s clients come from?
Families come to The Second Step from the inner city and the suburbs, from Massachusetts and beyond – many referred by “first step” domestic-violence crisis shelters.
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Does The Second Step help children?
Yes! Our innovative Therapeutic Afterschool Program provides academic and therapeutic support to children living in our residences. Our child and family service coordinators work with residential and non-residential clients to determine and meet the needs of their children.
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How is The Second Step funded?
The Second Step funds its $1.8 million annual operating budget through a combination of 50% public grants and 50% private contributions.
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How can I make a donation to The Second Step?
You can
Donate Now with a credit card, or send a check to: Development Office, The Second Step, PO Box 600213, Newtonville, MA 02460. Or consider a gift of stock, a Tribute Gift, or a Gift In Memory.
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Do you accept in-kind donations? When and where?
The Second Step welcomes donations of household goods, furniture, or other items on our
Wish List. Please call our volunteer coordinator at 617-965-3999 or email
volunteer@thesecondstep.org to learn drop-off locations and times and to make certain your items fit our current needs. Thank you!
How can I volunteer with The Second Step?
There are many ways you can help, from working with children in our residences to becoming a volunteer mentor. Please call our volunteer coordinator at 617-965-3999 or email
volunteer@thesecondstep.org learn about our current needs.
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Why do some victims of domestic violence remain in abusive situations?
Victims of abuse may be reluctant to leave for a complex set of reasons including safety, shame, fear, lack of money, or concern for the abuser. When a victim does leave, it does not guarantee that the abuse will stop. Batterers will often go to great lengths to trace their spouse or partner in order to continue the abuse. In fact, victims of abuse are more at risk for fatal injury at the hands of their abusers after they leave.
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If I have a friend in a domestic-violence situation, what can I do?
Don’t be afraid to offer help! Many people stay in abusive situations because they don’t know where else to go. To learn about how best to support victims, contact The Second Step at 617-965-2538.
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How can I learn more?
Please call our main number 617.965.3999 or email
info@thesecondstep.org. A friendly human will get back to you and we look forward to talking with you about how you can get information or get involved. Thanks for your interest!
Does The Second Step offer emergency shelter?
No. If you need emergency shelter please
call SAFELINK at 1-800-799-SAFE(7233). The Second Step offers supportive services through its residential and community programs.
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I am currently in a violent relationship. What can I do?
First of all, know that you are not alone and you can get help. The Second Step can help you to understand your situation, plan for your safety, and provide resources, information, and options. Call us at 617-965-3999, or learn more
here about what to do if you or someone you know needs help.
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How can I access The Second Step’s programs and services?
Please call our main number, 617-965-3999, or email us at
info@thesecondstep.org.