A Domestic Violence Survivor Story: from Abuse to Hope

This is a domestic violence survivor story about Nadine, whose unexpected journey toward freedom began in the quiet safety of her local library.

Sometimes Hope shows up in the most unexpected places.

Nadine’s world felt so small. She was trapped in an abusive relationship with no way out. Her partner controlled almost every part of her life. Everyday, she felt suffocated by isolation. She longed for freedom but feared what would happen if she left. Nadine knew she needed help but didn’t know where to turn.

One day, she went to her local library and found peace and safety. She knew she could go there without raising any suspicion from her abuser. The feeling of freedom is what her heart had been longing for.

At the library, Nadine met one of our Hope on the Road staff. What started out as an ordinary visit to the library became the moment Nadine had been waiting for. For the first time, she found someone who listened to her without judgment, someone who could help her take the next step. 

Week after week, she came back to the library. Not just for books, but for the chance to talk, and plan a future where abuse no longer defined her daily life. Over time, Nadine and our staff created a safety plan. When she was ready, she took that courageous step and left her abusive situation.

Today, Nadine is walking in freedom and finding safe spaces. It takes great courage for women to step out of isolation and into healing. With your help, Hope is there to meet them wherever they are, in their own community.

From Fear to Freedom: How Hope Supports Domestic Violence Survivors

So far in 2025, our Hope on the Road program has grown from 15 pop-up sites to more than 45 across Arizona. That means women like Nadine don’t have to come to us. We go to them, offering resources, support, and encouragement right where they are.

Our Night of Hope Gala is just a few weeks away and we can’t wait to celebrate stories like Nadine’s while raising the support needed to serve even more women in 2026. Every dollar raised ensures that women like Nadine find a place of safety, belonging, and hope.

Will you join us?

There’s still time to purchase your tickets by 9/12/25:

 Hope Gala 2025 | Powered By GiveSmart

or, if you can’t be there in person, you can still make a difference:

Give Now – Hope Women’s Center