
AVA’S STORY
Ava was once a dedicated student, excelling in her academics and full of promise for a bright future. However, her life took a drastic turn when her loving partnership morphed

Ava was once a dedicated student, excelling in her academics and full of promise for a bright future. However, her life took a drastic turn when her loving partnership morphed

Laila was a devoted stay-at-home mom to her three boys, living in a local beach community. Laila’s world took a dark turn when her husband’s struggle with substances led to

By Arezoo Shahbazi Roa, MSW, Prevention & Community Education Director The holiday season is often seen as a time of joy, connection, and celebration. For many, it’s a time to

Mariah was once full of life and joy—a mother of two, embracing every moment as a mother with excitement. But everything changed when she entered an abusive relationship. What began

Meredith, an assistant for the County of Orange, always dreamed of a better life for herself and her three daughters. In 2018, she and her partner purchased a home together,

Interview With: Becky Gipson, 5th Grade Teacher and Human Options volunteer As students return to school, we had the chance to sit down with Becky Gipson, a dedicated 5th-grade teacher

By: Sara Tienda, MSW, Community-Based Services Manager Summertime is often portrayed as a season of fun, relaxation, and happy moments spent with family and friends under the sun. However, for

By: Mieka Bledsoe, LMFT, Clinical Program Supervisor Relationship violence doesn’t discriminate based on age. Despite societal misconceptions, older adults face unique challenges when experiencing relationship violence. When we think

By: Maricela Rios-Faust, Chief Executive Officer As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the journey to emotional and psychological safety for survivors and

By: Young Lin, LCSW, Clinical Director Although April, designated as Child Abuse Prevention Month, has concluded, it remains crucial to acknowledge the profound impact our childhood experiences have on shaping