“Between Friends is an organization that has helped me and thousands of others.”
Sofia (whose name has been changed to protect her confidentiality and anonymity) has chosen to share her story as a survivor and her journey across several programs at Between Friends during her four years as our client. She describes our programs as “instrumental in my healing… tremendously helpful in my journey to self-awareness.”
Sofia’s husband of 21 years abused her and her children, berating them — “No one was doing the best they could, in his opinion” — and eventually becoming physically violent.
“Little by little, my life started to revolve around him and his mood. I wanted to please him at all costs. I wanted to avoid his anger every day. My mission in life was to deter his jealousy, his outbursts, and sometimes even his silent treatment. All to avoid his disdain for me. My self-esteem and self-confidence started to erode. I could never do anything right.”
After initially pursuing counseling in an effort to save her marriage, Sofia decided that she had to leave. “My world was my marriage, but I realized it wasn’t worth saving. I needed to save myself.”
Now, she says, “I am a whole other person. My outlook on life is one I never expected… The counselors at Between Friends have helped me realize what a special, unique, dynamic, and creative person I am.” She has written a book, become active in her community, helped other survivors, and become a volunteer for Between Friends’ Survivors for Economic Empowerment program.
“My life has changed in so many ways. I am now a confident and determined woman, ready to face life’s challenges.”
Please consider making a donation so that we can continue providing healing, resources, and support to domestic violence survivors like Sofia!
“I have much admiration for Between Friends as an organization. Between Friends seeks social change in what is very much an issue that involves all of us.”