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Other Resources From community organizations to helplines and educational materials, these resources are here to provide comprehensive support as you navigate your path towards healing and independence. 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline If you are considering suicide or need immediate assistance, call 988 for immediate support. Call Now Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence: ICADV ICADV works for the prevention and elimination of domestic violence. Visit Site National Domestic Violence Hotline (1 (800) 799-SAFE​) Averaging 3,000 calls, chats, and texts a day, The Hotline is an essential lifeline for survivors. Call Now Agape Center Assistance with utilities, rent, food, clothing, and toiletries 906 W. 4th St., Greensburg Call Now Bread of Life Free hot meals for those in need 720 Randall St., Greensburg ​ greensburgbreadoflife.com Call Now Greensburg Housing Authority Provides stable, affordable housing opportunities ​ 314 W. Washington St., Greensburg (Inside City Hall) Call Now Human Services, Inc. Assistance with food, homelessness, and navigating government programs ​ 1939 N. Carver St., Greensburg hsi-indiana.com Call Now Washington Township Trustee Provides poor relief assistance to residents of Washington Township ​ 1030 N Lincoln St, Suite 1400, Greensburg decaturcounty.in.gov/townships/washington Call Now

Hope is here. We help victims break free from domestic violence. I NEED HELP About New Directions Since 1993, we have been commited to assisting domestic violence victims by helping them break free from the cycle of abuse. Next Get Help Are you in a domestic violence situation? You're not alone. Our dedicated team would be honored to walk through this journey with you. Next Give If you would like to donate to the life-changing work of New Directions, please click the button below. Every dollar makes a difference. Next Our Mission Safety. Empowerment. Freedom. New Directions of Decatur County strives to increase social consciousness about domestic violence and to assist individual victims by helping them break free from the cycle of physical and emotional abuse. About Us Recognizing the Spectrum: Understanding Various Forms of Abuse At New Directions, we recognize that abuse extends beyond physical harm. We stand firmly as advocates for victims facing emotional, sexual, financial, electronic, and stalking abuse. Our commitment is to provide comprehensive support for survivors on their journey to healing. Physical Abuse Infliction of bodily harm, violence, or force Example: Hitting, slapping, or physical aggression Emotional Abuse Manipulation, control, and psychological harm, damaging mental well-being Example: Constant criticism, humiliation, or isolation Sexual Abuse Non-consensual sexual acts, coercion, or exploitation Example: Rape, unwanted touching, or sexual coercion Financial Abuse Controlling finances, restricting access, or exploiting economic vulnerability Example: Withholding money, controlling spending, or sabotaging employment Electronic Abuse Harassment, monitoring, or control through technology and online platforms Example: Cyberbullying, unauthorized surveillance, or online harassment Stalking Persistent unwanted attention, surveillance, and intrusive behavior Example: Following, threatening, or unwanted communication The Reality of Domestic Violence: Megan's Story OUR 2023 IMPACT: 228 adults were served by New Directions throughout the year. 415 children were indirectly served through the support New Directions provided for parents.

Contact Service Area Decatur County, Indiana Contact 24-Hour Crisis Line: 812.662.8822 Office Phone: 812.662.8223 National Crisis Line: 1.800.799.7233​ Office Hours Mon - Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM ndirect@etczone.com First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

Am I Being Abused? At New Directions, we engage with individuals daily who grapple with this very question. Asking it doesn't make you stupid. Labeling yourself a "victim" is challenging, and labeling someone an "abuser" is a weighty declaration. You've found your way to this page for a reason. Our purpose is to assist you in understanding your emotions, identifying potential signs of abuse, and embarking on the survivor's journey alongside you. What is Domestic Violence? Domestic violence is not just physical; it includes controlling behaviors, manipulation, and emotional harm. Our resources provide insights into the different forms of abuse, helping you understand your experiences and take the first step towards a safer future. Learn More Recognize the Signs It's crucial to understand whether you're in an abusive relationship. Abuse can take various forms, including physical, emotional, verbal, or financial. If you are unsure about your situation, the stoplights below can help identify where your relationship is on the spectrum. Red: Abusive Relationship Hurtful Communication: Expressing oneself in a hurtful, threatening, or demeaning manner. Physical Abuse: Causing harm through hitting, slapping, choking, pushing, or shoving. Disrespectful Attitude: Disregarding the feelings, thoughts, or opinions of the other partner. Blame-Shifting: Holding the other partner responsible for harmful actions. Control and Isolation: Dictating clothing choices, social interactions, and restricting freedom. Coercion and Threats: Pressuring or forcing the partner into unwanted actions through threats, harm, or blackmail. Yellow: Harmful Relationship Poor Communication: Avoiding discussions or engaging in frequent, unproductive conflicts. Disrespectful Behavior: Lack of consideration for feelings or personal boundaries by one or both partners. Lack of Trust: Doubting what the other says or invading their privacy. Dishonesty: One or both partners telling lies. Control Issues: One partner asserting dominance, prioritizing their desires, choices, and opinions. Limited Social Circles: Restricting social interactions to only your partner's community. Green: Healthy Relationship Open Communication: You talk openly, listen, and respect each other's opinions. Respectful: You value each other and respect emotional, sexual, and digital boundaries. Trusting: You believe in your partner without needing constant proof. Honest: You're honest while maintaining some privacy. Equality: Decisions are made together, and both adhere to the same standards. Personal Time: Enjoying time apart is normal, respecting each other's need for personal space. Did anything above sound familiar? Your Safety Matters Safety is a priority. Our step-by-step guide helps you create a personalized safety plan tailored to your situation. Whether you're planning to leave or seeking ways to enhance your safety within the relationship, we're here to support you. Start My Safety Plan Download Our Healthy Relationships Booklet! The purpose of this guide is to help you understand the warning signs of abuse in relationships. To download this resource free today, just click the link below! Download You have a voice. Talking to someone can be the first step towards change. Our trained advocates are here to listen, provide support, and guide you through your options. Reach out through our confidential helpline or chat with an advocate via email. Call Now Email Now

Make a Safety Plan The first step is tough—deciding to leave. It's a hard call but also empowering. Once you've chosen a safer, more stable life, the rest gets easier. Now, just make a plan and follow it step by step.​ It might take months or even years to gather the courage to leave an abusive relationship. Obstacles will come your way, but take them on one by one, conquering each step as you go. For more information, please download our Safety Plan Resource by clicking the link below. Download Preparing to Leave: Create a safety plan tailored for you and your children: Keep crucial numbers at hand – police, domestic violence hotlines, friends, and the local shelter. Confide in trustworthy friends or neighbors about the abuse, sharing your plans to leave and asking them to call the police if they detect signs of danger. Educate your children on when and how to dial 911. Establish a discreet code word for immediate assistance when communicating with friends, neighbors, or family. Practice a safe exit from your home. Designate a secure zone within your house, free of weapons, as a refuge during potentially dangerous situations. If an abusive episode seems imminent, guide your abuser toward this safe zone to minimize potential harm. Conceal or remove any weapons in the home. Identify a safe location to go if you decide to leave. Incorporate "routine" activities into your plans, such as taking out the trash or walking the dog, to gradually spend time outside the house. Prepare a bag with essential items and hide it in an accessible location. A Checklist of Helpful Items: Children (if it is safe and if you have legal custody) Money Keys to car, house, work Extra set of keys to car, house, work Personal care items for self and children Clothing for self and children Items needed for work (work shoes, ID tag, etc.) Children’s school-related materials (book bags, homework, etc.) Cell phone and charger Extra cell phone and charger Medicine for self and children Important papers for self and children (birth certificates, Social Security cards, protective order, marriage license, divorce papers, custody orders, children’s immunization records, bank statements, recent tax documents) Bank debit card, checkbook, and credit cards Driver’s license Car registration and title or lease, rental, or loan agreement Government assistance cards (food stamps, etc.) Passports, green cards, work permits Housing mortgage or rental agreement Mortgage payment book Unpaid bills Insurance papers List of friends and family members’ addresses and phone numbers for self and children Laptop computer or save important files on memory card/zip drive Photos, jewelry, & things that mean a lot to you Items for your children (toys, blankets, etc.) Pets (if possible or make arrangements for their care)

Safety Planning Safety planning at New Directions is a personalized and strategic approach, empowering individuals affected by domestic violence with the tools and resources needed to navigate and escape abusive situations. Through collaborative efforts, survivors develop tailored plans that prioritize their safety and well-being, providing a path toward independence and security beyond the impact of abuse. Protective Order Assistance New Directions offers vital assistance to domestic violence victims by guiding them through the process of filing protective orders. With compassionate support, the organization ensures survivors have the necessary resources and information to obtain legal protection, fostering a safer environment and empowering individuals to break free from the cycle of abuse. Danger Lethality Assessment New Directions conducts thorough Danger Lethality Assessments, evaluating the level of risk and potential harm faced by individuals affected by domestic violence. This critical assessment helps tailor intervention strategies, providing survivors with personalized support and resources to mitigate immediate threats and create a pathway toward lasting safety and well-being. Crisis Intervention Services Crisis Intervention Services offer immediate and compassionate support for individuals in domestic violence situations, providing a vital lifeline during challenging moments. These services serve as a crucial bridge to safety, guiding survivors toward assistance and the path to healing. Basic Necessities Assistance Survivors at New Directions have access to essential resources, including food and clothing, ensuring that basic needs are met on their journey to recovery. By addressing these fundamental necessities, the organization empowers individuals to rebuild their lives with dignity and resilience after experiencing domestic violence.

Advocacy Advocacy at New Directions is a beacon of support, where our dedicated team works tirelessly to champion the rights and well-being of those affected by domestic violence. Through strategic intervention and empathetic guidance, the organization's advocates empower survivors to navigate legal, social, and emotional challenges, ensuring their voices are heard and rights are upheld on the path to a violence-free life. Law Enforcement Advocacy In law enforcement advocacy, New Directions serves as a dedicated ally, advocating for domestic violence survivors within the police and court systems. Their specialized support ensures that victims' voices are heard and their rights are championed on the path to justice and a violence-free future. Domestic Violence Support Group New Directions' domestic violence support groups create a safe and empowering space for survivors to share experiences, receive professional guidance, and build a supportive community, fostering healing and resilience. Resources and Referrals New Directions goes beyond emotional support, connecting survivors with essential resources such as shelter, food, and clothing to ensure they have the necessary foundation for rebuilding their lives after domestic violence.

Our Services New Directions is a dedicated domestic violence prevention organization offering a comprehensive range of services, including expert advocacy, personalized safety planning, empowering life skills coaching, and impactful prevention initiatives, working tirelessly to create a safer and more secure future for victims and survivors. Advocacy Advocacy at New Directions is a vital support system, providing survivors of domestic violence with expert guidance and empowering them to navigate legal and social challenges as they strive for a violence-free future. Learn More Life Skills Coaching Life skills coaching at New Directions is a transformative process, providing survivors with personalized guidance to rebuild their lives, gain practical tools, and foster independence beyond the impact of domestic violence. Learn More Safety Planning At New Directions, safety planning is a personalized and strategic process, empowering domestic violence survivors with the tools and resources needed to escape abusive situations and prioritize their well-being. Learn More Prevention New Directions actively prevents domestic violence through a Teen Council, school programs on healthy relationships, and community awareness, aiming to break the cycle and create a safer future. Learn More

Resources For those navigating domestic violence situations, our online resources provide vital support and information. Explore these resources to find assistance, guidance, and the tools you need to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and embark on the path toward healing and safety. Do I Need Help? Explore our page to gain insight into potential signs of abuse. Understanding your situation is the first step toward empowerment and safety. Am I Being Abused? Making a Safety Plan Create a personalized safety plan with our guide. Whether you're planning to leave or looking to enhance safety, take charge of your well-being now. Start My Plan

About Us Breaking Chains and Building Futures. Our Mission: New Directions of Decatur County strives to increase social consciousness about domestic violence and to assist individual victims by helping them break free from the cycle of physical and emotional abuse. ​ Our Vision: New Directions of Decatur County envisions a community where every individual feels safe, empowered, and free from domestic violence and abuse. Our Story Welcome to New Directions of Decatur County, where we are passionately dedicated to breaking the cycle of domestic violence. Our mission is to raise awareness about this pervasive issue and provide crucial support to those affected by physical and emotional abuse. ​ At New Directions, we firmly believe in the power of advocacy to create lasting change. Through education, outreach, and support services, we work tirelessly to increase social consciousness about domestic violence. By shedding light on the issue, we aim to empower individuals to recognize the signs of abuse and take steps toward breaking free from its cycle. ​ In addition to our commitment to supporting victims, we extend our reach to the younger generation through our teen programming. In local schools, we engage in vital conversations about healthy relationships and dating abuse. By providing education and resources, we strive to equip students with the knowledge and tools to foster respectful relationships and prevent the perpetuation of abuse. ​ At New Directions, we recognize the importance of community involvement in dismantling the barriers that victims face. Join us in our journey to create a community where everyone can thrive in healthy, violence-free relationships. Together, let's build a future where the cycle of domestic violence is broken, and individuals of all ages can embrace relationships built on respect, understanding, and compassion. Our People Staff Kelly Wampler Executive Director April Richards Case Manager Grace Allgeier Youth Educator Board of Directors Ashley Wilson President Joey Roberts Bekah Smith Vice President Dr. Nykki Boersma Sherell Scott Secretary Tricia Burkhart Michele Holtkamp Treasurer Our History 1993 A team of 23 volunteers, the D.R.E.A.M. Team, laid the foundation for Decatur County's only domestic violence facility. 1998 The D.R.E.A.M. Team transformed into a nonprofit (known as New Directions), establishing a board of directors and solidifying its commitment to aiding victims of domestic violence. 2000 New Directions Domestic Violence Shelter emerged with a full-time Executive Director and a devoted team, relying on volunteers to offer 24/7 support for families seeking refuge. 2018 New Directions achieved a significant milestone with the acquisition of a new facility, strategically designed to house our offices and create a comforting, home-like environment for victims. 2021 Reshaping the shelter landscape, New Directions is enhancing community services, broadening education initiatives, challenging perceptions, and providing unwavering support on the path to survivorship.

New Directions Teen Council Our Mission: New Directions Teen Council is dedicated to ending teenage dating violence in Decatu r County and supports these efforts through education, empowerment and community support. ​ Our Vision: The vision of New Directions Teen Council is to reach Decatur County teens to empower them to develop healthy dating relationships. Our Values: We believe that all individuals are deserving of a relationship that is full of respect, trust, honesty, safety, and equality. We are driven to help teens who have been affected by relationship violence by providing educational resources and guiding them to appropriate resources. We believe that survivors of relationship abuse can be empowered to live an abuse free life and can heal through the help and support from our community and the local resources it provides. Recent Events Orange Out Games We encouraged our peers to wear orange to local basketball games to support teen dating violence awareness. Teen Date Night We coordinated a free night to be with friends or with a date to play games and learn about teen dating violence. Cookie Baking We baked and decorated cookies to give to first responders as a thank you for all they do for our community. Encourage-mints We sold candy grams to parents to send to their children or students to send to their friends with an encouraging message. Our Approach We proudly teach the Safe Dates curriculum, and engage our Teen Council in community-transforming work. Safe Dates is a research-based program that educates teens about the behaviors associated with dating abuse and violence. Safe Dates helps teens more clearly define what a healthy relationship is, as well as the causes and effects of dating abuse. We have implemented this program in Greensburg Community High School, North Decatur High School, and South Decatur High School. Our Executive Team The Executive Team of the New Directions Teen Council guides and directs the Council throughout the year, leading the way in our community as champions for healthy relationships. Brenley Jameson President Macy Kinker Vice President Carmin Ripperger Secretary Layla Fellows Treasurer

Prevention At New Directions, prevention means actively breaking the cycle of domestic violence through initiatives like the Teen Council, school programs, and community awareness. By promoting healthy relationships and providing education, the organization strives to create a safer future for everyone. Healthy Relationships for Teens New Directions prioritizes Healthy Relationships for Teens, offering vital education and support to empower young individuals. Through initiatives like the Teen Council and specialized programs, teens learn essential skills for cultivating respectful, supportive relationships, laying the foundation for a future free from domestic violence. Community Awareness New Directions actively raises awareness about the negative impacts of domestic violence through community event participation, year-round campaigns, and spreading crucial information to empower collective efforts in combatting this issue.