New Life Center commemorates Domestic Violence Awareness Month

By Mary Goldmeer
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As the nation marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, Goodyear-based New Life Center, one of the state’s largest domestic violence shelters, is sounding a powerful call to action: support survivors not just in crisis, but always.

The theme for this year’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, “With Survivors, Always,” resonates with the center’s mission. According to CEO Kate Thoene, the organization is focused not only on emergency shelter, but on building long-term safety, stability, and healing for survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking.

“Domestic violence isn’t just physical,” Thoene said. “It’s about power and control and it often shows up as emotional, financial, or verbal abuse. We have to recognize the full spectrum, or we risk missing survivors who are suffering in silence.”

Founded in the 1980s, New Life Center operates a 104-bed emergency shelter and has steadily expanded its services over the past four decades. In addition to safe housing, the nonprofit offers trauma-informed advocacy, therapy, legal and medical accompaniment, and outreach.

What makes New Life Center stand out, Thoene said, is its survivor-led approach, with a focus on both crisis response and prevention.

“Survivors deserve safety in every sense, not just physical, but emotional, financial, spiritual,” Thoene said. “We envision a society where every person feels safe, valued, and respected. That’s what we’re working toward.”

The center has seen an uptick in complex cases, including survivors facing homelessness, financial instability, and mental health challenges. Many are navigating multiple traumas, including sexual violence or trafficking. Others may not need shelter but still seek counseling, advocacy, or resources.

“We’ve had to adapt,” Thoene said. “That’s why we’ve expanded services beyond the shelter walls. Survivors need flexible, comprehensive care.”

To meet those needs, New Life Center offers education and prevention programs in schools and workplaces, trains professionals on how to recognize abuse, and even accommodates survivors’ pets, removing a key barrier that often keeps people in unsafe situations.

Changing the conversation

Prevention is a cornerstone of the center’s work. Thoene emphasized that one of the most powerful tools in addressing domestic violence is early, open conversations, especially with youth.

“Jealousy and control aren’t signs of love,” she said. “They’re red flags. When we teach young people how to recognize these signs and communicate with respect, we’re planting the seeds for healthier futures.”

Schools, employers, and community groups also have a role to play, Thoene said, by fostering environments where survivors feel seen and supported.

“When we normalize these conversations, we create safer communities and help prevent violence before it starts.”

Progress and partnership

Though challenges remain, Thoene said there’s reason to be hopeful. More people understand that domestic violence is not just a personal issue, but a community one and more people are joining the conversation.

“There’s greater awareness today than there was even a decade ago,” Thoene said. “But the demand for services is growing. Survivors still face major barriers, especially when it comes to safe, affordable housing.”

This year’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month theme, “With Survivors, Always,” reflects the center’s long-term commitment to healing and justice.
“Healing is a lifelong journey,” said Thoene. “Our job is to walk with survivors through all stages, not just the moment they leave abuse, but every step after that.”

How to get involved

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond, New Life Center encourages the community to support its mission. Ways to help include:

• Donating or volunteering at Hope’s Closet, the center’s resale boutique.
• Organizing donation drives for household essentials.
• Partnering through businesses or civic groups.
• Attending awareness events or workplace trainings.

“Every action matters,” Thoene said. “Together, we can build a safer, healthier Arizona, one where survivors don’t just survive, but thrive.”

Visit newlifectr.org for more information on Arizona resources and services.