Domestic Violence Program of Herkimer County

Call Directions Website

Domestic Violence Program of Herkimer County Serving victims of domestic violence in Herkimer Co. including shelter, accompaniment in legal, medic

The Domestic Violence Program of Herkimer County is a program of Catholic Charities. Our program serves victims of domestic violence in Herkimer County by providing them with supportive services, advocacy and accompaniment through the criminal justice process, family court, and medical appointments; as well as providing shelter services in our safe dwelling. We also have a 24- hour crisis hotline, and offer individual counseling for victims. We provide professional training and community education programming as well.

10/29/2026

💜 Campus Life Lately!

We’ve been spreading purple across Herkimer College in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month!

From our hand-painted window displays to our Shadows of Our Silence project, we’re working to bring awareness, encourage conversations, and remind students that they’re not alone.

A huge thank you to Herkimer College and everyone who has participated, shared their voice, or helped us spread awareness! 💜

Did you know? Our Domestic Violence Program offers FREE, confidential drop-in counseling for students experiencing unhealthy or abusive relationships right on campus!

📍 RMCC Lower Lobby

Mondays | 11:00 AM–1:00 PM
Tuesdays | 10:45 AM–12:45 PM

📍 Counseling Center

Thursdays | 10:30 AM–12:00 PM

Whether you’re questioning behaviors in your relationship, looking for support, or just need someone to talk to, we’re here for you.

💜🐾 Meet the “People” Behind the Mission: Milo, Program Therapy DogMilo has been part of our Domestic Violence Program fo...
10/23/2026

💜🐾 Meet the “People” Behind the Mission: Milo, Program Therapy Dog

Milo has been part of our Domestic Violence Program for just over a year.

He may not answer hotline calls, attend meetings, or complete paperwork, but Milo has his own important role. Sometimes a wagging tail and a little unconditional love can make a difficult day just a little easier. 💜

Throughout this series, we’ve introduced you to the people behind our mission and shared some of the things we wish more people understood about domestic violence. We thought Milo would be the perfect one to help us bring it all together.

His spotlight also reminds us of something important: Domestic violence doesn’t just affect people. Pets can be victims, too. They are part of the family, and their safety matters.

As we wrap up our Faces of Advocacy spotlight series, we hope you’ll continue to carry these messages with you. Domestic violence awareness shouldn’t be limited to October.

💜 KNOW IT. NAME IT. CHANGE IT.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2026

💜 Meet the People Behind the Mission: Jackie Ward, Program DirectorWhen Jackie Ward joined the Domestic Violence Program...
10/21/2026

💜 Meet the People Behind the Mission: Jackie Ward, Program Director
When Jackie Ward joined the Domestic Violence Program of Herkimer County as a part-time advocate in October 1998, she was simply looking for a job closer to home. What she didn’t realize was that she was about to discover a career she would become passionate about.
“I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I started. But as I learned more about domestic violence and began working with survivors, something just clicked. I felt like I had found where I belonged.”
Jackie became Program Director in September 2001, and now 28 years of being with the program, her passion for helping others remains just as strong.
One of the things she still enjoys most is answering the hotline and talking with people who reach out for support. She knows that recognizing abuse isn’t always easy, especially when someone doesn’t know what warning signs to look for.
“It’s easy to miss the warning signs when you don’t know what they are. I want people to know they’re not alone, that the abuse isn’t their fault, and that help is available. They don’t have to leave their relationship to receive our services. We’re here 24/7 to listen, help them understand their options, and support them in whatever they decide.”
💜 CHANGE IT.
“Stop making excuses for the person who is abusive. Abuse is a choice, and every time we excuse or minimize abusive behavior, we send the message that it is acceptable. We need to hold the person causing harm accountable instead of questioning or blaming the victim.”
When she’s not working, Jackie enjoys spending time with her family, camping, and traveling.
💜 KNOW IT. NAME IT. CHANGE IT.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2026

💜 Meet the People Behind the Mission: Megan Dack, Assistant Program DirectorMegan has worked in the domestic violence fi...
10/20/2026

💜 Meet the People Behind the Mission: Megan Dack, Assistant Program Director
Megan has worked in the domestic violence field for 24 years, supporting and advocating for victims and survivors while also working with community partners to strengthen how we respond to domestic violence in Herkimer County.
Her interest in this work began during a college internship, when she had the opportunity to support people during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Twenty-four years later, it’s still the people who make the work most meaningful.
“Sometimes having someone listen, believe you, and help you see your options can make a really big difference.”
Megan also values the community side of her work—building relationships with other agencies and helping our community become better at recognizing and responding to domestic violence.
As part of this year’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month theme, we asked Megan what she thinks we can do differently:
💜 CHANGE IT.
“Listen and believe survivors without judgment. Instead of asking, ‘Why don’t they just leave?’ ask, ‘How can I help?’ We can learn what domestic violence looks like, know where to refer someone for help, and recognize that everyone in the community has a role in making it easier for survivors to reach out.”
After 24 years in this field, Megan says the work has also taught her not to make assumptions about someone else’s situation.
“Every survivor and every situation is different. Sometimes the smallest things—a conversation, a resource, or simply having someone believe you—can be really significant.”
Outside of work, Megan enjoys spending time with family and friends, relaxing, laughing, and especially those days when she doesn’t have to be anywhere. And if there’s a good crime or drama series involved, there’s probably time for “just one more episode.” 😂
💜 KNOW IT. NAME IT. CHANGE IT.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2026

We know life gets busy and schedules change. We’re exploring different days and times for support group and want to make...
10/16/2026

We know life gets busy and schedules change. We’re exploring different days and times for support group and want to make sure we’re offering a time that works best for those who would like to attend. 💜🫶🏼✨

Please take a moment to complete our short survey and let us know what works for you! https://forms.gle/sWuRMLM234Yekv8RA

Once completed, an advocate will reach out to share more information and help you get started.

Thank you to everyone who participated in  !! We loved seeing everyone’s purple in support of  !! 💜🫶🏼✨
10/16/2026

Thank you to everyone who participated in !! We loved seeing everyone’s purple in support of !! 💜🫶🏼✨

Address

61 West Street
Ilion, NY
13357

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Domestic Violence Program of Herkimer County posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share