VOICES is a national advocacy committee sponsored by the Verizon Foundation. Its members, many of
whom have received services at a Family Justice Center, are survivors of domestic violence now celebrating
their strength and survival by using their voices in the hopes of helping others through advocacy,
education and empowerment. VOICES also seeks to develop communication protocols, opportunities for
public speaking and advocacy, and a strategic plan for development of National Chapters.

VOICES History
VOICES was launched in San Diego in 2002. At that time, members of VOICES served as an advisory
committee for the San Diego Family Justice Center, assisted with training and spoke at various public
events to bring awareness to the services provided at the Family Justice Center.

VOICES Nationally
VOICES is developing an outreach effort to create a nationwide group of survivors to educate the public
about family violence, as well as support new and existing Family Justice Centers. This national movement
is supported by a Steering Committee, Chaired by Yolanda Matos (Executive Director of Valley Crisis
Center) and Co-Chaired by Dr. Diane Lass (Integrated Mental Health Services, San Diego FJC) and the
Family Justice Center Alliance. The vision of the National VOICES Steering Committee is to include various
members from other VOICES Chapters.