As Domestic Violence Awareness Month draws to a close, Tulsa’s Domestic Violence Intervention Services (DVIS) commemorated a half‑century of service to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. The organization hosted an open house on Thursday, Oct. 29, inviting community members to learn about its life‑saving programs.
Demand for services continues to rise
DVIS CEO Tracy Lyall emphasized that the need for assistance grows each year. “Being able to just be here and meet the demand for services every year,” Lyall said, “the demand for services for us increases every year.” In 2025, the agency answered 3,876 calls to its 24‑hour crisis line and responded to 2,395 text‑message inquiries. It also provided emergency shelter for 519 survivors and children and offered hospital advocacy for 455 sexual‑assault survivors.
Comprehensive support for survivors
The nonprofit’s offerings include emergency and transitional housing, counseling for adults and children, legal advocacy, sexual‑assault support, and educational programs designed to address abusive behavior. Vice President of Advocacy and Education Services Lori Gonzalez warned that trafficking can occur in unexpected ways, even through family members or intimate partners, underscoring the importance of community education.
Community volunteers make a difference
Long‑time survivor Dee Jakubowski, who first sought help from DVIS three decades ago, attended the open house and shared how she now contributes by bringing crocheted household items for women arriving with few possessions. “The first step is absolutely the hardest,” Jakubowski said, urging survivors to know there are people ready to help.
Looking ahead
Lyall expressed gratitude for the sustained community backing that has enabled DVIS to operate for five decades. “50 years is quite a milestone,” she said. “We are just grateful that the community has supported us for so long to be here for 50 years.” The organization reminded the public that its 24‑hour crisis line remains open year‑round at 918‑743‑5763.
DVIS’s milestone highlights the ongoing need for robust, faith‑centered, family‑focused resources that protect the most vulnerable members of Tulsa’s neighborhoods.
Original reporting: KTUL 8 (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
