MUNCIE, Ind. — In the heart of Muncie, a nonprofit organization called A Better Way has been offering essential support, resources, and hope to individuals and families facing domestic violence, sexual assault, homelessness and crisis for over 30 years. The organization's mission is to provide safety and empowerment to those escaping abuse, giving them not only temporary shelter, but also the tools needed to completely rebuild their lives.
“I think if there’s anything that I can share with our community… it's to believe survivors and get involved,” Eden Jordan, Sexual Assault Program Director said.
She continues by explaining the gravity of empowerment, “I think if we stand together as a community and say we do not stand for violence in any form, it sends a powerful message.”
Since its founding, A Better Way has played a crucial role in helping survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault navigate their journey toward healing. The organization's core services include a safe shelter and crisis center, offering immediate relief to individuals in need.
“With our safe shelter and walk-in rape crisis center, these services are open 24/7. Any hour of the night members of the community are able to speak with an advocate,” said Jordan.
However, their support doesn't stop there— A Better Way goes beyond shelter.
In addition to providing a safe space, the organization offers counseling services for emotional recovery and legal advocacy to help survivors navigate protective orders, custody battles, and other legal issues related to domestic violence.
Jordan elaborates on their other crucial services, “We’ve kind of snowballed into having rapid transitional housing, a 988 crisis hotline, our safe shelter, as well as our walk-in rape crisis center— where they can make an informed decision with us about contacting law enforcement or going to the hospital because those places can be very intimidating.”
As a result of these services, many survivors have found the courage to start over and rebuild their lives. A Better Way has countless success stories of individuals who have regained control of their lives and found new hope.
Jordan urges the Muncie community to get involved, “When we work together we stop violence and create prevention initiatives.”
To support "A Better Way," individuals can donate, volunteer, or spread awareness about the organization's life-changing resources. For more information, visit their website, https://abetterwaymuncie.org/, or contact them directly.
Contact Lilly Tavarez with comments at lilly.tavaraz@bsu.edu.
