For over 40 years, Valley Oasis (formerly known as the Antelope Valley Domestic Violence Council) has been a beacon of hope and a steadfast advocate for those affected by domestic violence. From our beginnings in the Antelope Valley to supporting victims across the nation, we have dedicated our efforts to serving individuals who are hurt, vulnerable, and often marginalized. Whether locally or nationally, our mission has always been to ensure that every individual impacted by domestic violence has access to the resources, support, and safety they deserve.
A Legacy of Support
Founded in 1981, Valley Oasis began with a deep commitment to meeting the unique needs of domestic violence survivors in the Antelope Valley. What started as a localized initiative quickly expanded as we recognized the broader impact of domestic violence on diverse communities. By 1989, we made a pivotal expansion to our services, becoming one of the first organizations in the United States to provide shelter and services specifically for male victims of domestic violence. This bold step positioned Valley Oasis as a trailblazer in a field that had long overlooked the needs of men experiencing domestic abuse.
In 1991, we opened our Thrift Store, which has since become a vital source of funding for our programs and services. The Thrift Store not only provides affordable goods to the community but also serves as a means of supporting our mission, with all proceeds directed towards funding our programs for domestic violence survivors. This initiative helped us expand our ability to serve those in need while also fostering a sense of community engagement.
In 1998, we introduced the CalWORKs Case Management and Legal Services Program, designed to support individuals and families transitioning from public assistance to self-sufficiency. This program helped domestic violence survivors access critical resources, legal support, and case management services, empowering them to overcome barriers to employment and secure financial independence. The program has since become an integral part of our efforts to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.
In 2004, we recognized a critical gap in services for children affected by domestic violence. Kayla’s Place was created as a dedicated therapeutic program for children who have been exposed to violence, whether as primary or secondary victims. Children who witness or experience violence are at high risk for developing behavioral issues, including anger, and for repeating the cycle of abuse. Kayla’s Place was designed to break this cycle by providing specialized therapy and support to help young victims heal, cope with their experiences, and build the resilience needed to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
In 2008, we expanded our reach further by opening the Sexual Assault Response Services Program. This program was designed to support victims of sexual assault by offering comprehensive services, including advocacy, crisis intervention, legal assistance, and counseling. Recognizing that sexual violence is often intertwined with domestic violence, we sought to provide a seamless continuum of care for survivors facing the trauma of sexual assault, ensuring they receive the support and resources they need to heal and seek justice.
In 2016, we took another significant step to address the complex challenges faced by those experiencing domestic violence and homelessness. We began providing homeless services under the umbrella of the Coordinated Entry System. Recognizing the intersection between domestic violence and homelessness, we understood that many survivors of abuse also faced the harsh realities of housing instability. By integrating these services, we aimed to offer more comprehensive support to those in need, ensuring that victims of domestic violence who are also homeless have access to the shelter, resources, and long-term solutions they deserve.
Where We Stand Today
Today, Valley Oasis continues to honor our history by standing at the forefront of comprehensive support for all victims of domestic violence. From our humble beginnings in 1981, our journey has been marked by significant milestones, such as expanding services to male victims in 1989, opening Kayla’s Place for children exposed to violence in 2004, launching the Sexual Assault Response Services Program in 2008, and addressing homelessness through our Coordinated Entry System in 2016. Each step we’ve taken has been in response to the evolving needs of our community, ensuring that our services remain relevant and impactful.
Our programs now serve a diverse range of individuals, from survivors of domestic violence to victims of sexual assault and homelessness. Over the years, we’ve built a network of partnerships with local, state, and national organizations to strengthen our support systems. With our Thrift Store, CalWORKs Program, and various other initiatives, we continue to provide critical resources that foster healing, empowerment, and resilience. As we move forward, we remain deeply committed to transforming the lives of survivors, one family at a time, and ensuring that no victim is left behind.
