CLAREMONT, N.H. – Turning Points Network (TPN), Sullivan County’s comprehensive crisis and violence prevention agency, is proud to announce that it has changed its name to The Center for Safer Communities.
This new name reflects the organization’s evolution from a grassroots effort supporting women and children in crisis, to a countywide leader providing critical support to survivors of domestic and sexual violence, stalking, and sex trafficking, and empowering communities to prevent future harm through education and outreach.
“Our new name, The Center for Safer Communities, speaks directly to our mission,” said Pascale N. Graham, executive director. “We are here not only to support those impacted by violence and abuse, but to prevent violence from taking root by working with youth, families, and partners across Sullivan County to build safety, respect, and belonging for everyone.”
The timing of this announcement during October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, underscores the organization’s commitment to raising awareness and fostering community-wide action against violence. “There’s no better time than Domestic Violence Awareness Month to formally launch our new identity and make it official,” Graham added. “This month reminds us that ending violence requires all of us working together, and our new name reflects that collective responsibility.”
While the agency’s name has changed, its services remain the same. The Center for Safer Communities continues to offer 24/7 crisis support for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking; emergency shelter and transitional housing assistance; legal, medical, and systems advocacy; prevention education in schools and community organizations, promoting healthy relationships and nonviolence; and community engagement and training, to strengthen collective responses to relationship abuse.
The Center for Safer Communities traces its roots back nearly 50 years. Founded in the late 1970s as Women’s Supportive Services, the organization was built by women in Sullivan County who recognized that traditional systems were not meeting the needs of women and children facing crisis. They created a haven that offered safety, education, and opportunity.
In 2007, the agency became Turning Points Network, reflecting its commitment to helping individuals and families find new beginnings after abuse and trauma. Over the decades, the organization has grown to include a 16-bed emergency shelter, transitional housing supports, prevention programs in area schools, and a network of community partnerships that strengthen safety across the region.
Now, in 2025, as The Center for Safer Communities, the organization carries forward this legacy grounded in compassion, community collaboration, and the belief that safety is a shared responsibility. First announced at the agency’s annual Steppin’ Up community event and fundraiser in May 2025, the renaming process engaged survivors, board members, staff, and community members to choose a name that truly reflects the agency’s vision.
“Our new name honors where we came from while reflecting where we’re going,” said Graham. “We envision a community where everyone feels safe in their homes, relationships, and neighborhoods, and where education, support, and empowerment break the cycle of violence for generations to come.”
The Center for Safer Communities invites the community to celebrate this new chapter and continue standing together for safety, dignity, and hope.
To learn more or access support, visit www.cscnh.org, or call the 24-hour crisis and
support line at 800-639-3130.