Over the past year, the importance of community has come to the forefront of many people’s thoughts. 2020 was a balancing act – keeping our distance to help protect physical health while also finding ways to stay connected to people for mental health. Many have noticed just how much they miss the freedom to spend face-to-face with family and friends.
For the families who come to Stepping Stones for our advocacy services, learning the importance of having a positive community surrounding them is a key part of what they learn while with us. We know that it’s hard to walk difficult paths alone, but with supportive fellowship, it becomes easier to take steps forward. With the added challenges of the pandemic, it’s even more important to have supportive fellowship from people who encourage and empower you to keep going!
Because families are typically only with Stepping Stones for a couple months (four months for emergency shelter and longer if they live in our transitional housing), it is so important for them to have a supportive community around them when they leave. That community fellowship can be through 12-step support groups, a faith community, or even a small group of friends who will continue to uphold the hard work the person has done to break free from abuse. Regardless of who that group is, it is an important part of continuing to stay safe after leaving Stepping Stones, and knowing that they have someone to rely on no matter what.
If you or someone you know needs support because of domestic violence or other forms of abuse, call our advocates on our 24/7/365 Helpline: 928-445-HOPE (445-4673).
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