As I look back on this tumultuous year, I am reminded of the power of being seen, heard, and supported. Thanks to supporters like you, survivors across our state have reclaimed their lives, families have found safety, and we continue to fight tirelessly for a society where justice happens the first time.

This year alone, you helped thousands of survivors secure lasting legal protections that keep their families safe. We've included testimonials from some of the people your support has touched this year throughout this email, and we hope they bring you the same joy we feel.

Your generosity this holiday season ensures that FVAP can continue this vital work—protecting families, empowering survivors, and helping justice happen the first time. Every gift, no matter the size, strengthens our statewide impact and gives survivors the relief and hope they deserve.

From all of us at FVAP, thank you for standing with us—and with the families and survivors whose lives you help change every day. We wish you a restful, joyful holiday season filled with warmth and hope.

With gratitude and warm wishes,
Deborah Son
Executive Director

On the Battle of the Bands:

“Being at that event was a highlight of my summer. I loved getting into the city to enjoy a night out and be surrounded by people dedicated to making my life better.
It was overwhelming.”

—Meredith, Survivor and Battle of the Bands Volunteer

The end of the year is an opportunity for organizations to reflect on the work they’re doing, the volunteers and donors that support them, and the communities they serve. Here at FVAP, everything we do is about ending the cycles of violence that play out in the wake of an abusive relationship. Survivors and the legal protections they rely on are facing growing barriers – from shifting administrative policies to inconsistent law enforcement responses – making FVAP’s free legal resources and representation more vital now than ever. 

We couldn’t fight for survivors without supporters like you.
Our extensive statewide volunteer network of law firms and independent legal practitioners provides three hours of pro bono representation for each hour of staff time. This means FVAP operates and provides statewide impact as if we were a much larger law firm. Thanks to everyone who has donated so far this year, FVAP has raised $680,000 to support case reviews, document requests, in-person representation, and technical assistance for nonprofits and advocates throughout California. 

As funding becomes more uncertain, demand for our services continues to rise – especially for survivors navigating complex legal systems without other options.

Because of your robust support, as donors, as volunteers, as Boardmembers, we have been able to weather this year of uncertainty and funding cuts, and continue our work to ensure justice happens the first time. Your donation to our end of year campaign helps us fight back against abuse throughout the state, and keep survivors safe and healthy. With just $20,000 left to raise, your year-end gift can help ensure survivors don’t lose access to the legal protection they need in the year ahead.

After winning a lifetime renewal for her restraining order:

“Today’s judge granted the permanent renewal. It went pretty quick once he called us up, I felt a little in shock that he actually granted it. There’s relief that I won’t have an end date looming and have to think about going through another renewal process.
It feels like I can reclaim my life.” 

—Anonymous Client

Did you want donate to FVAP in 2025, but haven’t been able to give this year?By completing this brief three-question survey, you can share your feedback and still make an impact.

Thanks to a generous Board pledge, every response results in a $5 donation to FVAP—helping us improve our giving program while supporting survivors statewide.

On being turned down for representation:

“I just wanted to thank you and the entire FVAP team. Of course this isn’t the decision I was hoping for, but it makes sense. I appreciate how much time and energy everyone put into reviewing my case and in general the very difficult and impactful work you all are doing. While this is very difficult news to get, the time and care put into reviewing my case, especially the careful explanation of why you all are not able to take my case, is truly appreciated. It is easier to accept and digest this with the knowledge and understanding of “why.”
So thank you for everything you put into this.”

—Anonymous Survivor

As the Senior Paralegal Renee Boman is one of the main points of contact for people seeking FVAP's services. She and FVAP's intake specialist work closely to ensure FVAP's services are client-centered and trauma-informed. When she's not serving survivors Renee enjoys hiking, making art, and spending time with her family including her dogs Olive and Lil' Pete.

Prior to joining FVAP as Senior Paralegal in 2016, Renee worked as an investigator for the Habeas Corpus Resource Center, a California state agency that prepares habeas corpus appeals in capital cases. Renee holds a B.A in Urban Planning and Community Development from the University of Kansas City, Missouri, and in 2015 she received an ABA-Approved paralegal certificate from West Los Angeles College.

On FVAP’s utility:

“I would love to donate more to FVAP, however at this time I am a sole practitioner, working from home. I use the FVAP website all the time as a resource and refer other attorneys to it all the time. I know the wonderful work that you do.”

—Jan Maiden, Family Law Attorney

It’s official—our 2026 date is set! Join us for Battle of the Bands, an electrifying night of music and community in support of the Family Violence Appellate Project. Mark your calendars for June 25, 2026, and stay tuned for more details! 

Early sponsorship opportunities are available. Click here to learn more.

Right now, nonprofits across California are experiencing major declines in giving. By joining FVAP’s Sustainers Circle and making your donation a recurring one, you can make a powerful, lasting impact.

Sustainers give monthly or weekly, helping ensure survivors have consistent access to legal protection—regardless of income. Your ongoing support gives FVAP a reliable funding stream, so we can focus more on serving survivors and less on fundraising.

If you aren't already, join the Sustainers Circle today and stand with us year-round.