Melissa joined AVLF in 2023 as a Standing With Survivors Social Worker with the Safe & Stable Families program, where she provides trauma-informed crisis intervention, advocacy, and holistic support to survivors of intimate partner abuse. She conducts comprehensive needs assessments and connects clients to vital resources, including housing, healthcare, financial assistance, and legal advocacy. Melissa also leads strategic outreach efforts, strengthens community partnerships, and plays a key role in expanding AVLF’s mobile services through the SWS van. In addition, she supports program development by supervising MSW interns and contributing to strategic planning initiatives.
Born and raised in Marietta, Georgia, Melissa is deeply passionate about domestic violence advocacy, community engagement, and empowering survivors on their path to safety and healing. She brings a strong background in legal advocacy, foster care, and emergency shelter services. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Georgia State University and is on track to receive her Master of Social Work from Walden University in November 2025.