Summit County, Ohio: Hope & Healing Survivor Resource Center has proudly announced Judge Kathryn Michael’s Domestic Violence Intervention Court and its dedicated program partners, including the Summit County Prosecutor’s Office, as the recipient of its 2025 No HARM Award.
The No HARM Award, representing Healing, Advocacy, Resilience, and Momentum, recognizes individuals or organizations who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to supporting survivors of domestic violence and breaking the cycle of abuse. “This year’s honoree is a shining example of innovation and compassion in action, as the court is serving more than ever and moving the dial on safety.” said Hope & Healing’s CEO Teresa Stafford.
Domestic Violence Intervention Court (DVIC) is the first specialized docket of its kind in the state of Ohio and was a trailblazer in implementing focused intervention services for
families experiencing felony level intimate partner violence. “We are proud of the collaborative work we do to assist program participants in becoming productive, law-abiding citizens and when possible, to reunite them with their families. This is a win/win situation for the participant, the survivor, and their families. Ultimately, it is a win/win for the community at large.” said Judge Michael.
DVIC offers a trauma-informed, collaborative approach to justice and healing by holding offenders accountable while providing critical resources for survivors and their children. “This court isn’t just a courtroom – it’s a coordinated community effort. Through strong partnerships and a shared mission, Judge Michael and the DV Intervention Court team and their partners have created a pathway to safety, stability, and long-term change for hundreds of families.” said Stafford.
The award will be presented at A Night of Hope & Healing Gala on Friday, October 10, 2025, at House Three Thirty. The Silent Auction opens to the public October 3rd and pre-registration is available at: aucria.com/auction/NOHH25.
For more information about Hope & Healing Survivor Resource Center – Akron, visit https://hopeandhealingresources.org/. Anyone interested in learning more about DVIC can visit https://www.summitcpcourt.net/domestic-violence-intervention-court/.