In This Episode

Janet Michael sits down with Melanie Stull, Administrative Assistant and Volunteer Coordinator for Phoenix Project, to discuss Sexual Assault Awareness Month and the many ways the organization serves survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Front Royal and Warren County. Chamber President Niki Foster then joins Janet to share upcoming Chamber events, including Coffee & Conversation and the Virginia Wine & Craft Festival.

Phoenix Project Segment

What is Phoenix Project? Phoenix Project is Warren County's community response to domestic and sexual violence. All services are free and confidential and include:

Court accompaniment
Hospital accompaniment for forensic exams
Child and sexual assault counseling
Court advocacy
24/7 hotlines

New: Phoenix Project is hiring for a Firearm Intervention Program position — addressing the fact that lethality in domestic violence situations rises 600% when a firearm is involved.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month (April) Activities:

Teal ribbon displays along Main Street and at local businesses
"What Were You Wearing" exhibit — a powerful display challenging misconceptions about sexual assault
Healing Art Support Group for adults (led by sexual assault advocate Aaliya)
First-ever Children's Healing Art Group for ages 9–12 (Saturday sessions)

Volunteering with Phoenix Project:

Hotline support (Level 1 & 2 training provided — all materials included)
Event support
Office assistance
Community outreach and advocacy
The hotline comes to you — no need to come into the office

Hotline Number: 540-635-2300

Office line: 540-635-2302

Website: phoenix-project.org

Chamber Segment

Coffee & Conversation

When: First Friday of every month, 9–10 AM
Where: On Cue Sports Bar, Main Street, Front Royal
This month's guest: Avery Harper, Executive Director of Phoenix Project
Open to everyone — not just business owners

Virginia Wine & Craft Festival

Date: Saturday, May 16th
Tickets: wineandcraftfestival.com
Buy online now for $30 (save $10 vs. gate price of $40)
Ticket includes: wine glass, wristband, and unlimited tastings from 24 wineries
100+ artisans and crafters, food vendors, kids' area, live entertainment
Free general admission for non-wine drinkers
Great Mother's Day gift idea!

Lead Share Networking Group

Meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 8:30 AM
Location: Front Royal Warren County Chamber office
Ideal for those looking to build their network in a structured, small-group setting

Chamber Resources:

Website: frontroyalchamber.com
Facebook: Front Royal Warren County Chamber of Commerce

Key Topics Discussed

The dangers survivors face when leaving an abusive situation
Why "just leaving" is not simple — and why it's the most dangerous time
The "What Were You Wearing" exhibit and dismantling victim-blaming myths
Human trafficking in Warren County
How children are more aware of household violence than parents realize
The Lethality Assessment Protocol (LAP) hotline in partnership with local law enforcement
Safety planning for both intimate partner violence and stranger violence