First Step's Path
Background and Experience
Since 1978, First Step has been a change agent in reducing domestic violence and sexual assault in Wayne County. First Step's continuing effectiveness is due to widespread acceptance and support from the 35 communities that First Step serves. First Step has pioneered and successfully managed innovative violence prevention and intervention programs:
- January 1978: First Step incorporates as a private nonprofit agency, providing advocacy and short term shelter.
- February 1983: First Step opens a 20-bed shelter in Wayne County.
- January 1986: Nonresidential counseling is offered Downriver.
- December 1987: First Step purchases a new building, increases capacity to 42.
- May 1989: Sexual Assault services started, later Assault Response 24-hour on-call teams respond to sexual and domestic violence assaults.
- July 1993: First Step develops a nonresidential Children’s Counseling program.
- April 1995: Legal advocacy for survivors expands to in-court victim advocacy.
- October 1996: First Step becomes the leader in the STOP grant initiative. The collaborative effort is a model in the country.
- February 1997: A collaboration with Oakwood Healthcare System is established to initiate a healthcare clinic in the shelter.
- April 1997: An outreach office is opened in Redford.
- May 1997: First Step expands the STOP initiative.
- July 1997: The VOCA grant allows for community-based advocates in three additional communities.
- February 1999: An attorney is hired, funded by DOJ, that specializes in family violence.
- July 1999: The Peer Education Project begins, funded by CDH.
- January 2000: “Keeping Kids Safe,” a third grade domestic violence prevention curriculum, is initiated in Wayne County and funded by BSBSBCN.
- January 2001: “Keeping Kids Safe” evolves into a statewide train-the-trainer project funded by BCBSBCN to reach thousands of children statewide.
- March 2001: An aftercare advocate is hired, funded by HUD, to assist shelter residents with transitions towards economic and emotional independence.
- February 2002: A United Way special grant is awarded to proven parent-child interaction groups for families impacted by domestic violence.
- March 2003: First Step celebrates 25 years of providing services.
- October 2005: First Step starts a Transitional Support Program.
- 2007: First Step initiates a capital campaign to build a new emergency housing facility.
- 2008: The agency starts the McGregor Project to better serve Allen Park, River Rouge, Lincoln Park, Melvindale, and Ecorse.
- 2008: First Step celebrated its 30th anniversary.
- 2009: First Step opened its new Family Center in the City of Wayne.
- 2009: First Step started a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner(SANE) program.
The comprehensive services that First Step provides are consistent with its mission and vision for the future. First Step’s evolution has been remarkable and reflects the dedication, passion and determination of both individuals and communities. First Step finds solutions to the complex needs of those we assist, ranging from shelter to legal advocacy. The constant challenge requires sound fiscal management, creativity, initiative and compassion. First Step, in the past and in the future, will meet the challenges and work diligently in the best interest of the survivors and the communities that we serve.