A Message from Patti Giggans, Executive Director/CEO


Dear Friends and Supporters,


As we close out another year, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you. Whether you’ve supported Peace Over Violence as a volunteer, partner, colleague, funder, donor, or as someone who has received our services, your engagement with our mission means the world to us. Even if you’ve only just considered supporting our work, we deeply appreciate you being part of our community.

For 53 years, Peace Over Violence has stood by survivors and their families, offering a wide range of integrated services and leading transformative national initiatives like Trauma Informed Services, Denim Day, Teen Dating Violence Awareness & Healthy Relationship programming, and Empowerment Self-Defense & Safety. Your support has been crucial to making this work possible.

As we reflect on the past year and prepare for the new one, we’re reminded that the world continues to shift in profound ways, yet one thing remains steadfast: the human need to belong.

This season, our guiding theme has been “We take care of each other.” I can’t think of a better concept, feeling, or idea to suit the times we’re living in. My hope for all of us as a community and as a nation is that we can figure out ways to overcome our divisions and create connections and figure out the ways to take care of each other in the new year.

Thank you for being part of our community and let’s make sure to take care of each other.


Holiday self care


As the holidays approach, it is important to stay mindful that the holidays are not always joyful for all. In fact, the holidays can be a time of grieving losses and a reminder of trauma and hardships. This year Peace Over Violence partnered with Bold Ascencion a local non-profit who coordinated an Adopt-a-Family event for families that were struggling financially due to domestic violence. In partnership with YWCA of West San Gabriel Valley, 50 families were adopted and gifts were provided by generous volunteers who carefully shopped with the clients in mind. This event not only helped families this holiday but also reignited the meaning of why we do this work.


Peace Over Violence also partnered with the Pasadena Police Department who coordinated a heliport holiday event in which Mr. and Mrs. Claus provided gifts for all the children that were in attendance. Along with these events we have extended an invite to all of our clients to attend a Holiday Survival Workshop to learn tips on how to be intentional with self-care during this season. And, we are hosting multiple events including a workshop in ASL for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community, and a workshop in English and Spanish.


We asked our wonderful Master of Social Work clinical interns to share a holiday self-care tip:


“My tip for managing holiday stress is to set boundaries, including saying no, which is okay and creates a safe space for you and protects your peace.”
— Amber


“Practice Boundaries and Self-Care. The holidays can bring up stress and emotional challenges. Identify your limits and practice communicating them kindly but firmly. Prioritize self-care by scheduling time to rest, recharge, and engage in activities that bring you joy.”
— Nikki


"If others project their values onto you—whether through comments, control, or criticism—remember: their perspective doesn’t diminish yours. Your values and boundaries are valid, and it’s important to protect them in a way that feels safe for you."
— Nancy

Become a Volunteer


Peace Over Violence encourages caring and compassionate individuals from the diverse communities of LA County to become trauma informed Counselor Advocates working directly with survivors of sexual and domestic violence. Upon completion of the 82.5 hour training, you will be part of the Peace Over Violence Intervention Division’s Emergency Response Team, volunteering for either of the following programs: 24-Hour Hotline and Emergency Response Team or Domestic Abuse Response Team.


Training begins Wednesday, January 8th and sessions are held weekly in person at POV Metro Headquarters and on zoom. For more information and to apply, please contact: [email protected].

Application Deadline: December 20th.

POV Reads

The Risk of Domestic Violence Increases During the Holidays

reviewed by Davia Sills

Isolation, substance use, and stress heighten the danger of IPV during holidays.

Curb Your Inner Critic Over the Holidays with Self-Compassion

by Mitch Abblett

When we’re caught up in the rush to create the perfect holiday experience, showing ourselves a little self-compassion actually helps us show up for others.

A Survivor’s Guide to Prioritizing Self-Care During the Holidays

by Kera Daughtery

The holiday season can be a time that sparks joy, wonder, and connection, but on the flip side, this time of year can also lead to feelings of stress, disappointment, and loneliness, especially for survivors.

10 Tips for Lowering Holiday Stress

by Community Health Napa Valley

The weather is cooler, the scents of pine and cinnamon fill the air and holiday music has begun its annual takeover of radio stations. Holidays are a joyous time, meant to remind us of the vital importance of family and friends. However, with all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy for the joy of the season to turn into stress and even exacerbate depression symptoms.

Last-minute shopping?


Check out the POV Shop today to get your gifts in time for the holidays!


We have so many awesome gifts stocked up in our store - from shirts to hats to stickers and more, we have you covered with great gift options for all of your favorite people.

The perfect way to give back while glowing up. ✨


Now through 12/25, when you purchase Thrive Causemetics' Dream & Glow Chaser™ Blush + Highlighter Duo using code POV at checkout, 25% of your purchase will be donated directly to Peace Over Violence. This special edition Yvette/Ayesha duo was created in honor of our Chief Program Officer, Yvette Lozano, and launched during October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This is a perfect last minute holiday gift and using code POV you are giving back with every purchase! Thanks to our generous partners at Thrive Causemetics for their continued support 🩵💜

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