VEST’s mission is to provide services that will enable Solano County residents who are victims of domestic violence or sexual abuse to become empowered. This is so they will be able to take control of their lives and future, as well as to provide support during times of crisis. We provide these services without discrimination for all individuals, regardless of race, color, national origin, disability, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or age. Every member of VEST’s staff is a dedicated confidential advocate for our clients. It is our goal to provide those services that provide our clients with the skills and resources needed for self-reliance and to reach a future free of violence.
Domestic Violence Restraining Order Application Assistance: Your personal safety is your most important priority. Applying for a Restraining Order is a critical legal step to take to work towards your own protection. If you need to take this action, you can contact VEST to learn how to apply for this legal protection.
Court Accompaniment: Going to court is sometimes a process you will be required to go through. We understand that this can be intimidating. But you don’t have to be alone. VEST can support and help prepare you ahead of your court date and accompany you to your hearing.
Case Management: What do you need to do? Who do you contact? Victims of abuse or violence don’t have the luxury of a manual that describes exactly what to do when dealing with a violent event or ongoing abuse. In addition, every case is unique, with different support needs and processes that need to be followed. Our VEST Case Management Team will guide you through the process and help assess the progress towards achieving your desired results.
Safety Planning: An effective effort to protect yourself and your family requires advanced planning and knowing what alternatives are available to you to ensure your safety. Let VEST assist you build a Safety Plan so you understand your contingencies and help minimize the risk you and your family must face.
Domestic Violence Workshops: Domestic Violence is a complex and personal experience. While each case is uniquely personal for each person suffering from it, there are tools and structures we share in our Domestic Violence Workshops that help make it possible for participants break the cycle of violence.
Peer Counseling: As a victim, it is common to feel isolated and alone. It may also be incredibly difficult to communicate to someone about the physical, mental and emotional pain you have experienced. At VEST, we offer Peer Counseling services where you can speak with empathetic counselors who have endured similar pain.
Support Groups: As is the case with all personal problems people deal with, there are no quick fixes, no easy permanent “off switch.” VEST Support Groups are available so you have access to ongoing support during and after you deal with a distressful situation.
Housing Assistance: Shelter is one of our most basic needs. Unfortunately for many of our clients, the circumstances of their abuse results in the need to obtain new housing under emergency situations. Our Housing Assistance Service will work with you to find shelter alternatives for you so you can remain safe.
Assistance for Victims of Crime: Our team will assist clients with the California Victim Compensation Board application. This state program is dedicated to providing reimbursement for many crime-related expenses to eligible victims who suffer physical injury or the threat of physical injury as a direct result of a violent crime. CalVCB funding comes from restitution paid by criminal offenders through fines, orders, penalty assessments and federal funds.
Referral Services: Every person’s situation and journey to empowerment, safety and self-reliance is different. And, depending on your circumstances, you may need help or information from various agencies, businesses or services. VEST Referral Services will assist in connecting you with the parties you need to contact.
Middle and High School Prevention Education Workshops: The Healthy Relationships workshops assist students with basic life skills. They learn about the importance of self-awareness, personal boundaries, the life-long impact of bullying and emotional management. Cultivating these attributes will help students develop and maintain healthy relationships, boost personal acceptance, increase productivity, and allow students to see things from the perspective of others.