Officials of the Partnership for Families, Children and Adults said they are making plans as one of the new Family Justice Center's partners.
Since 1986 when Partnership's Domestic Violence Program opened, the agency has seen 10,000+ individuals each year, it was stated.
Officials said, "It's a staggering number with victims coming from every social, economic, and geographic spectrum. Today, Chattanooga is among the growing number of cities developing a Family Justice Center to meet the needs of victims and their families."
Partnership CEO Sandra Hollett said, "We cannot adequately express our gratitude to Mayor Andy Berke and his staff for their vision for the Family Justice Center in Chattanooga. Their leadership caused us to take a hard look at best practices in delivering services and how we can continue to be a valued partner to professionals providing services at the Center."
Hollett announced that Partnership's board and staff will undergo a strategic planning process that will assist in preparation for their role at the Family Justice Center. From working with other agencies to seeing that services are delivered in a sensitive and expedient manner, Partnership wants to make certain they are prepared and ready for service. In addition, Partnership board members will be well prepared to share information with community members about the important work being done at the Family Justice Center.
Partnership Board Chair Pat Neuhoff said, "Partnership has always focused on providing the highest levels of service to those who've experienced the unspeakable. With the Family Justice Center coming on line next year, we saw this as a unique opportunity to prepare for the shift in generations seeking service and we're excited to participate in a planning strategy that will yield a strong return on investment for generations to come."
"Chattanooga is fortunate not only to have a visionary Mayor, but also strong leadership from Judge Christie Sell, Judge Gary Starnes, Dr. Paul Smith, Brent Goldberg, Travis McDonough, and Stacie Richardson who are vigilant in their efforts on behalf of so many," said Ms. Hollett. "With the appointment of Chief Fred Fletcher as a partner to Hamilton County Sheriff Jim Hammond, we know the Family Justice Center will be a great success. We wanted to take a moment to express our thanks and our renewed commitment to this very important work."
She added that Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger has also played an important role throughout the planning process.