Healing Through Art: United Way Partnerships and the Phoenix Project's Impact

The Valley Today

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomed Kristen Gregg and Aliyha Gill from the Phoenix Project. Janet, who also serves as the Vice Chair of the United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley Board of Directors and this year's campaign chair, started the discussion reflecting on her dual role. Kristen is a children's advocate, and Aliyha is a sexual assault advocate at the Phoenix Project.

They began by discussing the Phoenix Project's mission in Warren County, providing solutions to domestic and sexual violence through services like a 24-hour hotline, financial assistance, crisis intervention, and shelter. Kristen and Aliyha elaborated on their specific roles, highlighting their supportive counseling and advocacy work. Kristen focused on educational programs for children and parents, while Aliyha discussed accompanying survivors during forensic exams and providing counseling.

The conversation then covered the Day of Caring Project, where Shenandoah Valley Orthodontics built playground equipment at the Phoenix Project site. Kristen explained the significance of having a safe outdoor space for children during their parents' counseling sessions.

A key part of the discussion was the Healing Art Group supported by a United Way Impact Grant. Aliyha shared details about the program, which helps survivors of domestic and sexual violence express emotions through art. Both Kristen and Aliyha stressed the therapeutic benefits of art in the healing process.

The conversation also touched on the Empty Place at the Table campaign, a national initiative to honor victims of domestic violence homicides by setting up empty table displays in public places like restaurants. This provides a discreet way for people to access information and support.

October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Phoenix Project's activities included putting up purple ribbons across local businesses and the courthouse to raise awareness. Additionally, the Wine Pull event on October 10th was highlighted as a major fundraiser.

The conversation concluded with Kristen and Aaliyah discussing how the community can support the Phoenix Project through volunteering, donations of gift cards, and other contributions. They also shared their 24/7 hotline number, 540-635-2300, and emphasized the importance of maintaining confidentiality and financial autonomy for their clients.

Kristen and Aaliyah provided information about their website and social media channels, urging listeners to visit for more details and resources. Visit their website: https://phoenix-project.org and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.