By: | March 11, 2026 | Local |
For anyone facing domestic or sexual violence, 180 Turning Lives Around provides the tools, guidance, and support to reclaim life on their own terms. Throughout Monmouth County, the Hazlet-based organization empowers survivors and their families through housing, counseling, and advocacy—available 24/7, in English and Spanish, and in a judgment-free environment.
Founded in 1976 as the Women’s Resource and Survival Center, 180 Turning Lives Around is approaching its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of pioneering services that are now standard in domestic violence care. It was the first federally funded domestic violence shelter in the United States and established Monmouth County’s first rape hotline. Decades later, the organization’s impact continues to grow, with programs designed to support survivors at every stage of their healing journey.
"Survivors often enter our programs carrying fear, uncertainty, and the sense that no one will understand," said Liz Graham, CEO of 180 Turning Lives Around. "Our focus is on meeting each person where they are, helping them regain confidence, make choices for themselves, and know that hope and safety are possible."
Housing that Restores Safety and Stability
The Emergency Safe House offers families private, pet-friendly suites, communal living areas, counseling rooms, and creative arts therapy studios. Here, parents and children can begin to heal in a secure, welcoming environment through play therapy, family counseling, or simply having a safe space to rest and regroup.
For survivors transitioning out of crisis, the Transitional Rapid Re-Housing program offers a path to stable, permanent housing. Paired with personalized counseling, case management, and financial education, the program equips families to regain independence, rebuild credit, and create long-term stability.
Counseling and Advocacy That Reach Every Age
A safe place to stay, however, is only the beginning. At 180 Turning Lives Around, counseling helps survivors and their families take the next steps toward healing and stability. Licensed therapists guide individuals, families, and groups through challenges, from understanding healthy relationships and practicing self-care to navigating the family court system.
Children and teens are also supported through programs like Amanda’s Easel, which uses art, play, and drama to help young people and their non-offending caregivers process trauma, and 2NDFLOOR, a 24/7 confidential helpline where youth can get guidance, comfort, or simply someone to listen.
Advocacy programs provide crucial guidance for survivors navigating legal challenges. The Family Justice Center and Family Court Liaison Program connect survivors with legal support, crisis services, and counseling—all in one safe, court-adjacent location. By bringing together multiple agencies, the Center reduces barriers, streamlines services, and ensures that survivors are never alone when pursuing restraining orders or appearing in court.
“Housing, counseling, and advocacy aren’t separate pieces,” Liz Graham said. “Each part connects with the others to help survivors rebuild confidence, make decisions for themselves, and begin to imagine a life beyond the crisis. That’s where real change happens.”
Survivor Leadership
A unique aspect of 180 Turning Lives Around is its integration of survivor voices into decision-making. The Survivor Advisory Board gives survivors a voice in guiding the organization, and its members draw on their own experiences to inform programs, community engagement, and outreach.
“Survivors understand the barriers and challenges better than anyone,” explained Janice Miller, Esq., a founding leader and current board member. “Their perspectives help ensure programs are accessible, effective, and respectful. This board exists to turn experience into guidance for others seeking a safer, healthier life.”
A 50-Year Legacy of Empowering Survivors
Christina Zuk, Board Chair of 180 Turning Lives Around, reflected on the organization’s history and ongoing mission. "Half a century later, our commitment is the same as it was in 1976: to make sure every survivor has a path to safety, stability, and hope. Each program is designed to help survivors take meaningful steps toward reclaiming their lives, while supporting the families and communities that surround them."
With comprehensive services and a history of groundbreaking initiatives, 180 Turning Lives Around continues to set a standard for domestic and sexual violence support in New Jersey. Every day, it provides safety, guidance, and hope to people who are reclaiming control of their lives.
If you or someone you know has been affected by domestic violence or sexual assault, please contact 180 Turning Lives Around at 732-264-4111 or visit www.180nj.org for 24/7 support and resources.
