Welcome to RESPOND!
I am honored to extend a warm welcome to you on behalf of RESPOND, New England’s pioneering domestic violence agency. My name is Victoria Helberg, and it has been my privilege to serve as Chief Executive Officer since 2022. With over 25 years of experience in supporting families facing challenges like poverty, housing insecurity, and family violence, I am deeply committed to our mission of ending domestic violence.
RESPOND’s roots run deep in our community. Founded nearly 50 years ago by four courageous women in Somerville, Massachusetts, RESPOND was born out of a grassroots effort to provide safe havens for women escaping abuse. These “founding mothers” opened their homes and hearts, laying the groundwork for what would become a beacon of hope and safety for countless individuals and families.
Today, RESPOND stands as the second oldest domestic violence agency in the nation, and our mission remains steadfast: to partner with individuals, families, and communities to end the serious public health issue of domestic violence and the homelessness it can cause. Through comprehensive prevention, intervention, and education services, we strive to foster safe, healthy relationships and safe housing solutions for all.
Since joining RESPOND in 2007, I have had the privilege of witnessing and contributing to our growth and impact. From my beginnings as the Children’s Services Coordinator to now leading this incredible organization, my commitment to families, especially those experiencing homelessness and violence, has never wavered. Inspired by my own family’s dedication to community service, I have always believed that everyone deserves to feel safe at home.
Under my leadership, RESPOND has expanded our reach and services significantly. We have doubled the capacity of our shelter, now providing a safe haven for twice the families in crisis. We have also developed innovative programs, such as our teen dating violence curriculum, inspired by the experiences of my own daughter. Our outreach has grown to include comprehensive youth programming, rapid and transitional housing for pregnant and parenting teens, and expanded safe housing solutions. Additionally, we have extended our school outreach programs and strengthened our law enforcement partnerships. Today, we serve survivors in Wilmington, Woburn, and Reading, in addition to Malden, Melrose, and Wakefield, with vital advocacy and support services services.
As we celebrate our 50th Anniversary, we reflect on the incredible journey that has brought us here and look forward with renewed dedication to our mission. We are immensely grateful for the support of our community, partners, and donors who have made our work possible. Together, we can continue to create a future where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected.
Thank you for visiting our website and for your interest in RESPOND. We invite you to explore our programs, get involved, and join us in our mission to end domestic violence.
With gratitude,
Victoria Helberg
Chief Executive Officer
RESPOND, Inc.