Group provides safe haven for abuse victims

According to national studies from the World Health Organization, one out of every three women in the world will be a victim of domestic violence in her lifetime. In Williamson County, help comes in the form of Hope Alliance, a nonprofit that has helped domestic violence and sexual assault victims since 1984.

Hope Alliance Development Director Melinda Biggs and Executive Director Patty Conner said that rather than being depressing and disheartening, the work is fulfilling and inspiring.

"It's amazing watching the resiliency of the clients, seeing them thrive and change and realize they are not alone," Biggs said. "Seeing the changes people can make is incredible."

Hope Alliance, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in April, offers counseling and support groups for its clients. The nonprofit has a legal advocate on staff who helps survivors apply for protective orders and crime victim compensation funds. Hope Alliance also has a violence prevention program that is active throughout Williamson County's schools.

Hope Alliance manages the only shelter in Williamson County for battered women and children. In total, the organization serves about 2,700 individuals a year. However, the need for services has grown to outweigh what Hope Alliance can provide, Conner said.

Because of the increased need, the nonprofit has to offer alternative shelter options, which can include hotel rooms or referrals to other shelter programs in the area for about 40 families per month because the regular shelter is full. Hope Alliance also has a 16-week waiting list for trauma counseling services. Conner said the need "just continues to grow."

Conner said the increased demand for services is due in large part to the continual growth of Williamson County, which saw its population grow by about 11.5 percent between April 1, 2010 and July 1, 2012, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. She added that state advocacy organizations are doing a good job of raising awareness of sexual assault and domestic violence, which in turn means more women seek out Hope Alliance.

"I think it's becoming more acceptable to reach out for help," she said.

Hope Alliance has expansion plans to help meet the demand. The nonprofit's headquarters is expanding into a neighboring 1,900-square-foot facility and will add five private offices for counseling. The bigger space will also allow for more staff, interns and volunteers.

Hope Alliance also has 2 acres of land in downtown Round Rock on which it can build a new headquarters and shelter. Conner said she expects the facility will be built within three to five years.

"One thing that concerns me is that we have been full at our shelter for so long; I worry that people in the community, those who need us, know that and that will be one more reason not to call us," she said. "What I want people to know is that just because we are full, it's not like we won't help you. Don't let that be one more obstacle to calling us."

Ways to support Hope Alliance

Hope Alliance Executive Director Patty Conner said there are four main ways people can support the nonprofit.

Work: Hope Alliance is always in need of volunteers. Volunteers have a variety of duties, including answering phones and going with clients to court dates and hospitals to provide emotional support.

Wealth: Hope Alliance accepts monetary donations as well as goods and necessities such as cleaning supplies and toiletries for its shelter.

Wisdom: Hope Alliance needs people to serve on its board with certain knowledge sets, specifically a real estate agent and an attorney, Conner said.

Witness: Conner said even if people don't directly help Hope Alliance, it is important they speak out against domestic violence whenever they have the chance.

How to help someone in need

Hope Alliance Executive Director Patty Conner said there are several ways one can help someone who is a victim of domestic violence or sexual assault.

Believe them: Conner said many domestic abuse victims are told people will think they are crazy if they report the abuse. Believing the victim can give them the courage they need to confront the issue, Conner said.

Let them know you care, and they don't have to face the issue alone: Domestic abuse victims often think they are the only ones enduring what they are going through. Lending a little emotional support can go a long way, Conner said.

Direct them to the Hope Alliance hotline at 1-800-460-7233: Hope Alliance volunteers and staffers answer the hotline 24 hours a day to connect those in need with resources and information.

1011 Gattis School Road, Ste. 106, Round Rock, Hotline: 1-800-460-7233, www.hopealliancetx.org