1977
The University of Iowa’s Women’s Resource and Action Center
receives a grant to explore the problem of Domestic Violence in our community.
1979
Aid and Alternatives to Victims of Spouse Abuse was established
1980
The Domestic Violence Intervention Program shelter was opened,
offering counseling and a 24-hour crisis line.
1980’s
Program grew to add additional staff
1984
Expanded Shelter
1986
“Mandatory arrest law” goes into effect, arrest rate increased by 54% in a six month time period;
DVIP experienced a 300% increase in requests for service.
1991
DVIP’s service area grows to include Cedar, Washington and Iowa Counties
1993
Construction of a 13 room shelter is complete
1994
Jones County is added to service area
2010
Established a “Transitional Housing Program” to assist families with housing and rent for an entire year
2013
State regionalization of Domestic Violence Programs changes our service area to cover 8 counties: Johnson, Iowa, Cedar, Washington, Des Moines, Henry, Lee and Van Buren
2015
DVIP was awarded a national grant from RedRover to expand our support services, helping us establish Cooper’s House: kennel services in our emergency shelter for our client’s pets. Even before Cooper’s House, DVIP helped facilitate pet fostering and raise funds for pet essentials such as food and medical treatment.
2024
Construction of Terry Fortman Emergency Shelter is completed, doubling the capacity of the 1993 shelter.
DVIP transitions to DVIP & RVAP, to offer support to victim-survivors of sexual abuse throughout Southeastern Iowa.
