Community Activities

Beyond Shelter/Circle of Hope

In addition to working with Renewal House residents, our advocates are skilled at leading and facilitating community-based domestic violence support groups. We recognize that not all individuals need or want to leave their own home, yet need the support and education of a group focused on the reality of living and coping with domestic violence. We have launched partnerships with several other Boston area domestic violence programs to provide four six-week support groups each year. One ongoing group, held in partnership with Casa Myrna Vazquez, is for Spanish-speaking individuals. The other groups are held in Roxbury at various times throughout the year. Topics include self-discipline, developing healthy relationships, stress management and budgeting. In addition, our staff is available to provide resources and referrals as needed for food, housing, substance-abuse programs, legal services, educational services and job training programs. If you are interested in learning more about support groups, contact us at 617-277-4194.  Food and childcare are provided.

Sermons, Workshops and Discussions

We're also available for public discussion, sermons and workshops. Part of our mission is to build understanding between those who have experienced violence and/or poverty and those who have not. We will provide people to facilitate workshops and programs to educate and raise awareness about the problem of domestic violence, and the religious and spiritual issues involved in intimate partner violence. The director of Renewal House and other staff are also available to participate in church services to discuss how your congregation can take part in ending domestic violence. If you are interested in discussing a workshop or sermon, please call Renewal House at 617-277-4194.