San Manuel – The Safe Journey House (SJH) is a non-profit domestic abuse advocacy and information center, supported by donations, fundraising and grants, with a service area that includes over 22,000 residents throughout the Copper Corridor area and surrounding unincorporated areas in Eastern Pinal County.

SJH has helped over 120 clients since Sept. 2011, from as far north as Globe and as far south as Catalina, offering advocacy for victims, safety planning, referrals to resources and emergency shelters, after abuse recovery, as well as community education on the impact of domestic violence on individuals, families and society.

These victims span a variety of ages, social groups and ethnicities, and include members of both sexes.

Domestic abuse affects every part of society. It knows no restraint due to economic class, social status, sexual orientation, general lifestyle or cultural tradition. It can come in many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, isolation, economic deprivation, domination and stalking.

It is most often progressive, and without intervention it can lead to death. Chances are you know someone who hides their secret pain behind a mask of normalcy.

Even though abuse affects all walks of life and age groups, one group is more affected than any other. According to the National Center for Children Exposed to Violence, Domestic violence has been found to be the single most common precursor to child death in the U.S.

SJH Advocates are trained and certified through the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Both advocates and advocate assistants must pass a background check and sign a legal binding privacy statement, understanding that client confidentiality can, at times, make the difference between life and death.

Currently, there are two paid staff members, both of whom are trained advocates and act as house managers. All other advocates and .assistants work on a volunteer basis. They are dedicated, compassionate and generous with their time and talents.

Many of them have been through abusive situations themselves and are able to relate to their clients on a first hand basis, as well as be an example as to the possible positive outcome in a seemingly impossible situation.

Safe Journey House would welcome further volunteers for 4-hour shifts. If you would like to be considered, drop by 212 East 15th Street in San Manuel or call 520-385-4970. All are welcome to apply, but, SJH reserves the right to retain only those who fit their criteria.