DVSSP Celebrates 40 Years of Empowering Survivors and Creating Safe Communities
“Reaching our 40th anniversary is a testament to the resilience and strength of the survivors we serve, as well as the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and supporters.”
Megan Hegedus, CEO
Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania (DVSSP) is proud to announce its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of unwavering dedication to empowering survivors of domestic violence.
Since its inception as a volunteer-run resource center, DVSSP has grown from a small grassroots effort into a comprehensive agency providing critical services such as prevention education, counseling, legal advocacy, and emergency shelter. Today, DVSSP is a beacon of hope for individuals and families across Washington, Greene, and Fayette counties who are seeking refuge and a path to a life free from relationship violence.
“Reaching our 40th anniversary is a testament to the resilience and strength of the survivors we serve, as well as the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and supporters,” said Megan Hegedus, CEO of DVSSP. “We are honored to have been a part of so many transformative journeys and are committed to continuing our work until every person in our community feels safe and respected in their relationships.”
DVSSP will commemorate this significant milestone at the Peace Begins at Home Dinner on October 16. Held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Southpointe, this annual event brings together community members, supporters, and advocates to raise awareness and honor those who have made an impact on the lives of survivors. This year’s dinner will celebrate the remarkable progress made over the past 40 years and set the stage for future initiatives aimed at ending relationship violence.
Additionally, DVSSP is excited to unveil a recent rebrand thanks to a grant from the Washington County Community Foundation, as well as a new website, generously funded by the FISA Foundation. The rebrand reflects the organization’s evolving identity and renewed commitment to its mission, while the new website offers a more user-friendly experience, providing easier access to resources and information for those in need. Lamar Advertising has graciously donated digital billboards in Washington and Fayette counties in October to share this news and promote DVSSP’s services.
“Thanks to the support of the Washington County Community Foundation, the FISA Foundation, and Lamar Advertising, we have been able to enhance our online presence and better communicate our message of hope and empowerment,” Hegedus added. “These upgrades will help us reach more individuals and families, breaking the cycle of violence for future generations.”
