In the summer, both community members and social service providers met to discuss the need for a local agency dedicated to serving adult victims of domestic abuse and their children. The group conducted a survey of local and statewide service providers in order to gather statistics, survey the problem, and generate solutions. After analyzing the results, the group decided to open an agency to address the issues incorporated under the name Battered Spouses Network. 

In the spring, the agency received a $20,000 start up grant. Using these funds, the board hired an executive director in May and a counselor advocate in June. With a group of trained volunteers, the hotline opened in July. By the fall, the agency was also offering community support groups and court advocacy services. Emergency shelter was provided through a series of safe homes

The safe house, named the Tracey Thurman House, opened. Several counselors and a child advocate were hired to staff the shelter. Since then, the agency has continued to offer an emergency safe house, a 24 hour hotline, child advocacy, community outreach, support groups, information and referral, court advocacy, and community youth education.

The safe house was renamed in memory of a dedicated board member Julie Fallon. It is now called
Julie’s Safe House.