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Domestic Violence Project Inc. (DVPI) recently launched its new Izzy Chatline—a secure messaging platform offering advocacy resources, emotional support, safety planning and connections for vulnerable Stark County residents. This online service can be accessed from a phone, tablet or computer and is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“At DVPI, we are always looking for ways to make our services more accessible to survivors,” said Julie Donant, CEO of DVPI. “The Izzy Chatline allows survivors to connect with an advocate discreetly and conveniently through our website, helping us meet people where they are and remove barriers to seeking support.”
Serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, stalking and dating violence, DVPI provides trauma-informed, comprehensive services. Along with the Izzy Chatline, the nonprofit operates an emergency center and 24-hour crisis phone hotline, provides housing assistance and advocacy for survivors of human trafficking and offers peer, legal and medical support.
The chatline reflects changing communication preferences, especially for younger generations that are more likely to seek support by texting or chatting online. Understanding that technology can play a large role in abusive relationships, DVPI’s private, secure chatline offers survivors a more discreet option than making a phone call.
“The ability to access support silently can be a critical safety tool,” said Donant. “This can be especially important for individuals who may be monitored by an abusive partner, have limited privacy or simply feel more comfortable typing than speaking.”
Through the chatline, advocates provide confidential and compassionate support while working with survivors to develop an immediate safety plan, navigate physical and emotional barriers and offer services tailored to their individual circumstances.
Advocates are trained in domestic violence advocacy, crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, safety planning and community resources. They also receive training specific to the Izzy platform, ensuring that user safety and confidentiality are always top priority.
“Our staff and advocates are deeply committed to supporting survivors and helping them achieve safety, healing and empowerment,” said Donant. “Knowing that even a single conversation can make a difference keeps our team dedicated to this work.”
Since launching in April, DVPI has already seen the Izzy Chatline connect community members with support that they may not have otherwise sought out. Although DVPI primarily serves Stark County, anyone seeking help can reach out and advocates will either provide direct support or connections to resources in other local communities.
“Whether someone calls our hotline, emails us or uses the Izzy Chatline, they will be met with compassion, support and respect,” said Donant. “This is another way we are working to ensure survivors can access help when they need it most.”
DVPI regularly hosts awareness events, trainings, prevention programming and other events throughout the year. Learn more about the organization and its initiatives at www.dvpi.org