History of MAAV

Our Story

The Melrose Alliance Against Violence (MAAV) was born from a community study conducted by the Melrose League of Women Voters. The study revealed a startling reality that many residents weren't aware of: there were approximately 200 reported domestic violence situations to the Melrose Police Department in the year prior to the study, with 150 restraining orders on file.

As one founding member recalled, "I guess I thought that domestic violence was something that occurred in other towns and cities..." This revelation prompted immediate action: "We have to do something."

The organizers quickly moved to form a board of directors, transitioning into a tangible organization. From the beginning, MAAV's mission was twofold:

Raise community awareness about domestic violence and educate students about healthy relationships to prevent the cycle of violence before it starts
Help victims receive the support they needed to break the cycle of violence

Late 1990s

One of the first initiatives launched by the newly formed organization was an annual walk and candlelight vigil to remember victims of domestic violence. This event, held every October during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, began modestly with about 50 participants in its earliest years.

The early years were characterized by building partnerships across the community. As one founding member noted, "That's the heart of Melrose - the fact that over the years so many people have taken action and worked together... we're all working together to make this community stronger and better for everyone."

The 2000s

As MAAV entered its second decade, the organization expanded its programming significantly, particularly in the school system. The annual walk and vigil continued to grow, evolving into a true community-wide event with activities for children, music, and increased participation.

The organization developed deep collaborations with the Melrose Public Schools, creating age-appropriate prevention education programs. This educational component became one of MAAV's most distinctive characteristics, with one community member noting: "There just isn't anything like the Melrose Alliance Against Violence in so many other communities."

The 2010s

By its 20th anniversary in 2015, MAAV had established several core programs:

School-Based Prevention:

"Healthy Relationships" program for 8th graders
Student Action Board at the high school, training peer leaders
Mentoring program based on research showing that one caring adult can protect against various risk factors

Community Events:

The annual walk and vigil, which grew from 50 participants to 500 by 2015, and reached a record 960 people by 2020
Community coffeehouse "Voices Against Violence," using arts to raise awareness
Participation in community events like the Victorian Fair, the Melrose Run for Women, White Ribbon Day

Direct Support:

Weekly support group for survivors, running continuously for 8 years (as of 2020)
Partnerships with police, schools, clergy, and businesses to provide comprehensive support

2020 and Beyond

By its 25th anniversary in 2020, MAAV had become, as one community member put it, "part of the fabric of the community." The organization grew from a small grassroots effort to an established presence with a small but dedicated staff and wide community impact.

MAAV's approach has always been collaborative rather than competitive, leveraging partnerships throughout the community. As the organization's leaders have emphasized, addressing domestic violence is a complex journey that requires ongoing commitment: "It's a complicated problem... it's a journey, it's a process. But we have so many resources, so many partners that we can leverage... to be able to say to [survivors] truly: you are not alone and we can help you."