Families in Crisis

There is no excuse for domestic violence or abuse.    

Domestic Violence or Abuse Hotlines in Virginia:

Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance: 1-800-838-8238 
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE 
YWCA Richmond and Henrico: 804-643-0888
YWCA Chesterfield-Tri-Cities: 804-796-3066


If you are looking for resources to help save a difficult marriage, resolve a relationship that has gone sour, find help for troubled youth, please consider the following:

Programs offered by First Things First of Greater Richmond

For Couples:

• It Takes Two! Keys to a Rewarding Relationship is a workshop for ALL couples based on the research-proven PREP approach as seen on Oprah, 20/20 etc. Positive outcomes include higher couple satisfaction, improved communication, intimacy, reduced conflict and 33% fewer break-ups. Considered an evidence based "best practice," It Takes Two is widely used by military and government agencies. This is the most well researched national program and is used successfully in many countries and cultures and by government, community and faith based agencies throughout the nation (Also available: Christian-PREP: “A Lasting Promise” teaching the same proven skills from a Biblical and Christian perspective for churches).

• Choosing Wisely Before You Divorce - strong medicine for failing marriages! A kit for those considering divorce; gives valuable information and realistic expectations. Inexpensive resource kit with 5 x 20 minute DVD presentations from subject experts from various fields in news format with workbook - can be used by an ndividual or by the couple contemplating divorce or by clergy or mentors who can be assisting couple. Can be self guiided or with a facilitating couple who does not need any formal training, just being supporting and "for" the couuple/family. This is the best single resource for helping couples considering divorce to slow the train down and to help them be well informed as to the process and impact of divorce and costs/consequences for them, their childre, extended families and friends/co-workers. Available for partner congregations in our Resource library at Center for Congregational Ministry (formerly Ecumenical Resource Center) Link for Choosing Wisely and Couples in Crisis resources  Purchase at http://www.beforeyoudivorce.org

For Singles:

• Love Thinks™ by PICK a Partner for singles / also called "How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk™ (or Jerkette) or How to Avoid Dating a Jerk program teaches singles dating strategies for healthy relationships: "How to follow your heart, without losing your mind." Considered an evidence-based "best practice" widely used by military and government agencies.

For Youth:

• Relationship Smarts™ healthy relationship skills for youth from Dibble fund. This is a 12-unit program that is offered in a variety of locations throughout the metro area.
• Choose Respecta teen dating violence prevention program is offered in a variety of locations throughout the metro area in conjunction with the Virginia Department of health.

For Fathers:

• 24/7 Dad™ is a unique, comprehensive set of fatherhood programs developed by a team of nationally and internationally recognized fathering and parenting experts and with input from fatherhood practitioners. The full basic program includes 12 units though we often combine and abbreviate into 4-5 sessions. At the end of each program, fathers and mothers come together to discuss the developments the father has gone through and how it has affected their relationship and family life. Each program includes pre and post-assessment evaluation tools. Organizations can use the assessment tools to help a father determine in which program his needs can be best met or can use a simplified post training survey customized for their setting.
• Understanding Domestic Violence Curriculum Module from NFI. This curriculum is to help understand and prevent domestic violence.
• Incarcerated and Jail: Inside Out Dad™ includes 12 core sessions, 26 optional sessions, and an optional “Reentry: Life on the Outside” module. We also have Long Distance Dads curriculum so programs can be customized for the audience and setting. Considered an evidence-based  "best practice."