WHO WE ARE
KV Domestic Violence Outreach Inc. is non-profit community organization that helps to empower women who have experienced intimate partner violence through the provision of outreach services, educational programs and support groups, community awareness and filling the gaps in service.
WHAT WE DO
The services that we provide include:
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Safe, confidential individual support to women who have experienced intimate partner violence.
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Assistance in creating safety plans and leaving abusive relationships, as well as help to rebuild their lives and recover from abuse.
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Educational support programs for women, including PTSD, healthy relationships, and self-esteem.
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Collaboration with schools to provide healthy relationship educational programs to youth.
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Public awareness presentations and training for professionals.
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jessica Smith
Chair
Jessica attended SFU and completed courses in gender studies and linguistics, before taking a break. In 2013, she graduated from NBCC with a degree in Chemical Engineering Technology. Shortly thereafter, she opened Luxury Tanning + Beauty. She is currently completing a certificate in Family Violence Issues from UNB-F, all while single-handedly taking care of two kids.
Misty Matthews-Emery
Secretary
Misty has been a member of the KVDVO Board since 2018 and has been a member of the Executive, in the position of Secretary, since 2020. She is a lawyer who has been practicing law for 20 years and is currently employed with the New Brunswick Legal Aid Services Commission specializing in the practice of Family and Child Protection law.
Melissa Martin
Treasurer
A lifelong resident of Saint John, Melissa is dedicated to helping victims of domestic violence within the community and strives to ensure their safety and help them move forward. Melissa graduated in 2010 from UNBSJ with a major in Sociology; she is also co-chair of the Regional Violence Prevention Network and sits on multiple committees.
Michelle LeBlanc
Member at Large
Jasmine Buchanan
Member at Large
Jasmine Buchanan joined the KVDVO Inc. Board of Directors in 2019. She is a lawyer with ten years of experience practicing family law.
Madeleine Adams
Member at Large
Madeleine is a lived experience advocate for women and children who have experienced gender based violence. She has worked in the vulnerable sector for over eight years with various roles supporting families, youth and women in our community. Madeleine is a lifelong resident of Saint John, and is currently managing the Finding Roots Housing Program for Coverdale Centre for Women.
Madeleine’s professional work has focused on harm reduction, peer mentor programs and supporting women in transition.
Lauren Haggerty
Member at Large
Lauren is a Bachelor of Social Work student with 8 years of experience working alongside at-risk youth and individuals navigating substance use. Her work has focused on supporting those who are facing systemic barriers and complex trauma through case management and client-centred care. In addition to her professional roles, Lauren has volunteered in various community outreach initiatives supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and substance use challenges.