MISSION:

We are leaders in empowering women, children and families to live with dignity and respect, free from domestic and sexual abuse.

VISION:

We will have a strong team working in a well-resourced environment that supports the development and empowerment of women in our community. We will be leaders in ending abuse for everyone in the North Okanagan.

ABOUT US:

Archway Society for Domestic Peace, formerly known as the Vernon Women’s Transition House, has been part of the Vernon community for more than 40 years. It started when a group of local women joined together to plan an International Women’s Year during this, and they realized there was a much deeper need in the community - a safe place for women. The Old United Church became that place and was the first residential facility that opened in 1975.

As more women come forward to share their stories of abuse, the need has become apparent for more supports. We have only grown over the years by purchasing a new Residential Facility, providing low-income housing/supportive programming to young mothers and mothers to be.

In 2015 the Society opened Oak Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, a welcoming, child-friendly environment where children and youth who have experienced abuse, sexual assault, or witnessed a crime can share their story with police or social workers. The staff at Oak Centre, including our Child and Youth Service Coordinator, work with these agencies to make sure your child’s experience is as comfortable as possible and to make sure you and your child are supported throughout the interview process and on an ongoing basis.

We, Archway Society for Domestic Peace, operate the local women’s shelter as well as 16 other programs. These include a comprehensive range of services to women, children, men and families from the North Okanagan who have experienced sexual or physical violence. Some of our programs include victim assistance, free counselling, safe shelter, outreach services for isolated women and families, information, advocacy and educational programs in schools and the community at large. (Please see video below)

As a women-centred organization, Archway Society for Domestic Peace continues to be a full-service agency that provides wrap-around support to survivors of domestic and sexual abuse and empowers women and children to lead lives with dignity and respect. Archway Society also is involved in many community partnerships with other local organizations.

We chair the Violence Against Women in Relationships Committee (VAWIR), Sexual Assault Services Committee, Oak Child and Youth Advocacy Centre and the Integrated Case Assessment Team (ICAT).

When it comes to our goal of transitioning to a future free from violence, the more knowledgeable the community is, the better we can advocate for change.

For more information about the Archway Society or the services available, please visit our website.